CHENNAI: Actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president Vijay on Monday asserted that both he and his party would remain cent per cent committed to protecting social and religious harmony.
Addressing a Christmas celebration organised by TVK for members of the Christian fraternity at a private hotel in Mahabalipuram, Vijay said the party's core ideology, secular social justice, was rooted in this very commitment. "A light will surely emerge, and that light will guide us," he said.
Describing the occasion as a moment of love and compassion, Vijay said these values formed the foundation of humanity and reflected the spirit of Tamil Nadu itself. "This is a land of motherly affection, where all children are treated equally," he said, adding that festivals such as Pongal, Deepavali, Ramzan and Christmas were celebrated collectively, transcending religious differences.
Though lifestyles and modes of worship may vary, Vijay said, people remained brothers and sisters at heart. He explained that TVK's public affirmation of belief in God after entering politics was intended to underscore respect for faith and mutual coexistence. "True belief nurtures harmony and teaches respect for others' faiths. Such belief alone gives the strength to overcome even the biggest challenges," he said.
Drawing from the Bible, the actor-politician referred to the story of a young man betrayed by his own brothers, who later rose to save not just them but an entire nation, an allusion he said needed no explanation. "The message was clear: divine grace, love for humanity and relentless effort could overcome any adversary," he noted.
"I give you this assurance today. TVK will stand firmly for social and religious harmony. That is why we named our ideology secular social justice," added Vijay.
The event was attended by senior Christian leaders, including Archbishop George Antonysamy of the Madras–Mylapore Diocese, representatives of the Prince of Arcot, Jesus Calls, the Indian Christian Ministers Council and several bishops, pastors and nuns.
As part of the celebrations, Vijay distributed dictionaries, copies of the Tirukkural and chocolate boxes to children, cut a 40-kg cake and joined them in festive cheer. Children, in turn, presented him with a Santa Claus cap. He also extended Christmas greetings, saying, "All glory to the Almighty. Praise the Lord."