At least 36 people, including eight children, were killed and more than 40 others injured in a stampede at a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday, authorities said.
According to multiple international reports, tens of thousands had gathered to attend a rally hosted by actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, known as Vijay, campaigning for his new party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam.
The stampede occurred as the crowd surged forward during Vijay’s speech.
Many attendees reportedly fainted from heat and overcrowding before the panic escalated.
“Several people fainted due to heat and overcrowding, and then there was a sudden rush, leading to a stampede,” a local police official told People.
30+ died in stampede during Joseph Vijay’s political rally in Tamil Nadu.
And this shameless continued his speech even after the ambulance arrived. pic.twitter.com/HHFMEBYA6N
— BALA (@erbmjha) September 27, 2025
Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian confirmed that many victims died before reaching hospitals. Forty-five people were admitted to local facilities for treatment.
Vijay, who was on a bus-converted stage addressing the crowd, was visibly shaken by the tragedy.
In a statement, he said: “My heart is broken; I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow. I express my deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for a speedy recovery for those who are undergoing treatment in the hospital.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences via social media.
“My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. Wishing strength to them in this difficult time. Praying for a swift recovery to all those injured,” he wrote.
The unfortunate incident during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is deeply saddening. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. Wishing strength to them in this difficult time. Praying for a swift recovery to all those injured.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 27, 2025
The state government announced that a judicial commission led by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan will investigate the causes of the stampede and recommend measures to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, known professionally as Vijay, is an Indian actor, playback singer, and politician who primarily works in Tamil cinema.
Widely regarded as one of the highest-paid and most successful actors in the industry, he is affectionately referred to by his fans as “Thalapathy” (Commander).
Over a career spanning more than three decades, he has starred in numerous blockbuster films, including Ghilli, Mersal, and Leo.
According to Indian Express, his entry into politics in February 2024, with the launch of his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam, was driven by an aspiration for a “fundamental change” in governance.
This move follows years of social and political messaging in his films and philanthropic activities through his fan club.
He has previously articulated his goal to establish a corruption-free, transparent, and egalitarian government, positioning his party as an alternative to the established political forces in the state.