Tamil cinema’s biggest Pongal clash is already heating up off-screen, as fan rivalries took center stage during the trailer launch of Thalapathy Vijay’s upcoming film Jana Nayagan in Madurai. Outside Ritzy Cinemas, a section of Vijay fans was seen tearing down posters of Sivakarthikeyan’s Parasakthi, which were displayed at the venue, sparking chaos. A video circulating on social media shows fans cheering as the posters are ripped off and tossed aside, while others recorded the incident on their phones.
The clash comes at a high-stakes moment for Tamil cinema, with both films scheduled for back-to-back releases during the lucrative Pongal weekend Jana Nayagan on January 9 and Parasakthi on January 10. Originally, Parasakthi was planned for a January 14 release, but rescheduling became difficult due to investor commitments and the upcoming Tamil Nadu elections.
Sivakarthikeyan addressed the incident during the audio launch of Parasakthi, urging fans to remain calm. He explained that he had coordinated with Vijay’s team regarding the Pongal release and confirmed there was no personal rivalry. “Vijay sir said both films can release during Pongal without affecting each other’s box office. He also conveyed his best wishes. This is an ‘annanthambi’ elder brother and younger brother Pongal,” Sivakarthikeyan said.
While the stars maintain public camaraderie, the fan frenzy highlights the intense emotions surrounding Tamil cinema’s festival releases. The clash between the films is expected to dominate box office conversations in the coming days, but both actors have made it clear that respect and professionalism remain paramount. For now, audiences will watch eagerly to see which film wins hearts during the festive season.
