Tamil Nadu: 'Virtual Vijay' Enters Election Campaign; Southern Superstar Seen Seeking Votes in Digital Avatar

Election campaigning for the Assembly polls in Tamil Nadu is currently in full swing. Amidst this, a candidate has utilized AI technology in their campaign—a move that has become the talk of the entire nation. Specifically, in Kumbakonam, a candidate from the Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) employed holographic AI technology to project a large, lifelike image of the party president, Vijay, during election rallies.

This innovative approach is effectively compensating for his absence at numerous campaign events. With voting for the state Assembly elections scheduled for April 23, and Vijay unable to attend many campaign programs, candidates are seeking alternative methods to maintain voter engagement.

AI System Rental: ₹50,000 Per Day

In this context, Vinod Ravi—the 32-year-old TVK Secretary for the Thanjavur East district and the candidate contesting from Kumbakonam—implemented this AI technological “hack.” According to reports, he procured this system from Kama Technologies at a daily rental cost of ₹50,000.

Ravi further remarked, “The Election Commission has granted me permission to utilize this technology for four days. It fills me with immense enthusiasm and confidence, creating the sensation that our ‘Thalapathi’ is standing right beside me, speaking directly to the people.”

Playback of Pre-recorded Speeches

It is worth noting that the system mounted on the campaign vehicle employs holographic projection technology based on the principle of “persistence of vision.” The setup comprises a projection fan display, high-speed motors, and a synchronized audio system, all powered by the vehicle’s onboard generator.

This configuration generates a highly realistic, life-sized (head-to-toe) 3D hologram of Vijay. The visual effect creates the illusion that he is standing atop the vehicle, directly addressing the gathered crowds. The system is synchronized with audio recordings of Vijay’s past speeches, making it appear as though he is delivering a live address directly from the campaign vehicle.