Chennai: In a surprising political development, the Tamil Nadu government has appointed actor-turned-Chief Minister Vijay’s longtime astrologer, Radhan Pandit Vettrivel, as Officer on Special Duty (Political) to the Chief Minister.

The appointment came shortly after Vijay officially took oath as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister following intense political negotiations and repeated delays in receiving approval from the Governor to form the government.

Interestingly, Vijay had originally planned his swearing-in ceremony for May 10 at 3:45 PM. However, the timing was later changed to 10 AM based on Vettrivel’s astrological advice, citing an auspicious “muhurat.” Sources close to the ruling Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) say Vettrivel played a key advisory role throughout Vijay’s political journey.

A well-known spiritual figure in Tamil Nadu, Vettrivel reportedly predicted Vijay’s electoral victory long before the Assembly elections. Over the years, several prominent political leaders, including former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, were known to consult him before making important decisions.

Following TVK’s strong performance in the elections, Vettrivel was among the first visitors to congratulate Vijay at his residence. His latest appointment now marks his formal entry into the political establishment.

Vettrivel has spent nearly four decades in the field of astrology and is also active on social media, where he regularly shares astrological guidance and predictions.

Political analysts have drawn comparisons between Vettrivel’s confidence in Vijay’s victory and the election projections made by poll strategist Pradeep Gupta’s Axis My India, which had forecast TVK winning between 108 and 120 seats.

In the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, Vijay’s TVK secured 108 seats in the 234-member Assembly. Although the party fell short of a clear majority, support from allies including the Congress and Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) enabled Vijay to stake claim and eventually form the government.