Vijay: Malaysia is home to one of the largest Tamil communities outside India. — Bernama
Malaysia’s multicultural landscape and long-established Tamil community have helped keep the Tamil language and cinema alive far beyond India, says popular South Indian actor-turned-politician Vijay.
Malaysia stood out among overseas markets not only for the size of its audience, but also for its ability to preserve Tamil culture within a diverse, multilingual society, he said.
After Sri Lanka, Malaysia was also home to one of the largest Tamil communities outside India, he said.
This made it a critical pillar in the global Tamil cultural ecosystem, he told some 80,000 people who turned up at Bukit Jalil National Stadium in Kuala Lumpur to an audio launch celebrating his upcoming 69th film, Jana Nayagan.
“Malaysia is special because Tamil culture here has grown alongside other cultures, languages and faiths.
“That coexistence has allowed Tamil cinema and traditions to remain alive across generations,” he said to thundering applause at the event, as reported by Bernama.
Highlighting Malaysia’s multicultural harmony, Vijay said inclusivity was reflected in everyday cultural practices that transcended ethnic and religious boundaries.
He also said Malaysia’s consistent engagement with Tamil films had made the country a respected reference point within the industry, adding that overseas audiences often influenced how Tamil films were remembered globally.
“Sometimes, simply hearing the name of a film brings Malaysia to mind,” said Vijay, recalling that two of his films, Kuruvi and Kaavalan, were shot in Malaysia.
Reflecting on his 33-year film career, Vijay said his fans had stood by him during his most difficult periods, including when he faced criticism, hardship and uncertainty in his early years.
“For the past 33 years, they have shown unwavering commitment and support.
“I don’t believe in merely saying ‘thank you’, but in giving back with gratitude.
“Now, I am giving up cinema for my fans because they have given me so much,” he said, adding that Jana Nayagan would be his final film before transitioning fully into politics and championing the people.
The event titled “Thalapathy Thiruvizha” was a tribute to Vijay and launch of the soundtrack to Jana Nayagan.
The extravaganza of performances was attended by several prominent figures from the Tamil film industry, including music director Anirudh Ravichander, actor-director Prabhu Deva and directors Atlee and Nelson Dilipkumar, along with members of the cast and creative team of Jana Nayagan.
The event, which ran for nearly 10 hours, won a Malaysia Book of Records entry for the highest number of attendees at an audio launch.
