Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay dismissed claims that he transitioned directly from cinema to politics, saying such portrayals are "only a reel, not reality." Recounting his decades-long public journey, Vijay said his political path began through fan clubs, welfare activities, social campaigns and grassroots engagement long before entering electoral politics. Crediting the people of Tamil Nadu for his rise, he said his success was built on public trust, service and sustained work—not overnight stardom.