Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS), the AIADMK leader, kicked off his campaign for the upcoming Tamil Nadu Assembly elections in Chennai, drawing inspiration from the late Jayalalithaa’s iconic campaigning style. EPS began the campaign with a symbolic gesture at the Kapaleeswarar temple in Mylapore, marking the start of his first Assembly polls as the leader of the AIADMK.

The scene outside the temple resembled the grand events Jayalalithaa often hosted, with women in traditional attire lining the streets, carrying floral offerings. "EPS campaigns just like Amma (Jayalalithaa). It is inspiring. He should win," said Priya, a party worker. The campaign's timing was also carefully chosen, with an astrologer advising that 4 PM was an auspicious time for the event.

In his speech, EPS took aim at the ruling DMK, highlighting issues such as corruption, law and order, and women's safety. He criticized the DMK-led alliance, setting the tone for a strong election battle. EPS faces a crucial election, as the AIADMK has experienced consecutive defeats in the 2019 and 2024 Lok Sabha elections, as well as the 2021 Assembly elections. The party's alliance with the BJP has been revived for this year's Assembly elections, intensifying the competition.

With actor-politician Vijay making his electoral debut, this election will be even more challenging, as Tamil Nadu faces a five-cornered contest. The state's voters will cast their ballots on April 23, with results expected on May 4.