Chennai: Actor Sibi Sathyaraj has expressed strong admiration for Vijay amid ongoing political debates surrounding the actor's shift towards politics, penning a heartfelt open letter that has now gone viral.
Addressing him affectionately as "Vijay Anna," Sibi reflected on their long association and Vijay's influence on his life and career.
In his letter posted on X, Sibi wrote, "It was on the 3rd of October 1993 I first met you when you had come along with SAC Sir and Captain Vijayakanth Uncle to attend the birthday celebration of Appa at Pollachi Shakthi Hotel Terrace. Little did I know that this unassuming young man was gonna win millions of hearts including mine and become a force to be reckoned with in the future!"
He also acknowledged Vijay's decision to move away from films, adding, "Even though we still can't come to terms with the fact that you are not going to act anymore, I, as a fan, actor, brother, and friend, feel it is important to respect your decision to take a new path, and will always stand by you."
Interestingly, his statement comes at a crucial moment ahead of the state Assembly elections, with Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) aiming to make its debut electoral impact in its inaugural political contest.
"Over the years, you have directly or indirectly played a major part in my life, and I'm sure the same is true for millions of your fans. Many of my closest friendships were formed because we were united by our love for you. The first date with my then-lover-turned-wife, Revathi, was watching Priyamanavale at Albert Theatre on 20-11-2000," he wrote.
He also described how Vijay's career shaped his own journey and worldview.
"Even though I come from a Cinema background, you were a major inspiration for me to enter the world of cinema. Your films, though often seen as pure entertainment, taught me the value of true love, friendship, confidence, self-respect, decisiveness, and much more. Your kutti stories offered deeper insights into life than most self-help literature ever could."
Concluding his emotional note, Sibi wrote, "Thank you for directly or indirectly inspiring us and for keeping us entertained and happy for over the last 33 years, dear Anna. We will always cherish the wonderful celluloid moments you have given us."
The letter comes at a time when Sibi's father, Sathyaraj, has stirred debate within Tamil Nadu's film and political circles, highlighting a growing divide as Vijay's political journey gains momentum ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. Sathyaraj, a staunch supporter of the ruling DMK, has launched a blistering verbal attack on the superstar, following the indefinite delay of Vijay's highly anticipated political thriller, Jana Nayagan.