Seeman, Vijay, and Naam Tamilar Katchi: A History of Collaboration and Conflict
The Early Years
Seeman and Vijay first met in the early 1990s, when they were both struggling actors in the Tamil film industry. They quickly bonded over their shared passion for Tamil culture and politics, and they soon became close friends.
In 1996, Seeman founded the Naam Tamilar Katchi (NTK), a political party that advocated for the rights of Tamil people in India. Vijay joined the NTK shortly after its founding, and he quickly became one of its most prominent members.
The Rise of Vijay
Vijay's star rose rapidly in the late 1990s and early 2000s, as he became one of the most popular actors in Tamil cinema. He used his fame to promote the NTK and its message of Tamil nationalism.
In 2006, Vijay was elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly as a member of the NTK. He served in the Assembly for two terms, and he was a vocal advocate for Tamil rights during his time there.
The Split
In 2017, Seeman and Vijay had a falling out over the NTK's support for the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. Seeman opposed the alliance, while Vijay supported it.
The split between Seeman and Vijay led to a bitter public feud between the two men. They accused each other of betrayal and of abandoning the principles of the NTK.
The Aftermath
The split between Seeman and Vijay had a significant impact on the NTK. The party lost a number of its members, and it has struggled to regain its former strength.
Seeman and Vijay have both continued to be active in politics. Seeman remains the leader of the NTK, while Vijay has joined the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).
The Future
The future of the relationship between Seeman and Vijay is uncertain. The two men have not reconciled their differences, and it is unclear if they ever will.
However, the split between Seeman and Vijay has highlighted the divisions within the Tamil nationalist movement. These divisions are likely to continue to be a source of tension within the movement in the years to come.