Vijay can’t expect to become a Pawan Kalyan in just over an year
In the event of an alliance, Vijay, who has not yet shown himself in the election, wants others to support him. He ought to realize that's not how realpolitik operates. A solid coalition is needed to overcome the DMK. Vijay can currently choose to ally with just the AIADMK and Puthiya Tamilagam, which is part of the ADMK coalition.
Vijay can take a cue from Andhra politics and play second fiddle to Edappadi Palaniswami if VCK decides to leave the DMK and join the AIADMK+. Pawan Kalyan's current position is the result of ten years of political labor. In a little more than a year, Vijay cannot hope to become a Pawan Kalyan. For 2026, a 4-way (if ADMK data-aligns with TVK) or 5-way contest could significantly benefit non-DMK+ contenders, provided TVK dents the DMK+ vote bank. A 3-way race, however, would likely pave the way for another DMK victory.
Vijay is simply following Vijayakanth's blueprint. He may present himself as another Vijayakanth now. Vijayakanth, however, had a distinct temperament. Even after the DMK destroyed his marriage hall, which was something he held dear, he remained a strong political player who kept jayalalithaa on her toes and refused to give in to their demands and entices. Will Vijay be able to cope with DMK's pressure? We must observe and wait.