G. Ramanathan

G. Ramanathan, 33, is contesting from the Pollachi constituency in Tamil Nadu as a candidate for the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), a party founded by actor Vijay in February 2024. A graduate professional declaring his occupation as farming and self-employment, Ramanathan represents TVK's attempt to field fresh faces in its debut electoral contest. His declared assets of Rs. 2.53 crores (including Rs. 1.73 crores in movable assets and Rs. 80 lakhs in immovable assets) with liabilities of Rs. 31.74 lakhs appear consistent with someone involved in agricultural business and self-employment ventures. Ramanathan faces a significant challenge in Pollachi, a constituency that has been an AIADMK stronghold with five consecutive victories, most recently won by V. Jayaraman in 2021. The constituency, located in Coimbatore district, has a strong agricultural and textile industry base that aligns with Ramanathan's declared professional background. However, extensive web searches reveal no prior political activity, public service record, community engagement, or media presence for Ramanathan, making him essentially a political newcomer without an established track record. As a TVK candidate, Ramanathan benefits from the momentum generated by actor Vijay's entry into politics, with the party positioning itself as an alternative to the DMK-AIADMK duopoly. TVK has been hosting large rallies and has announced candidates for the 2026 Assembly elections with ambitious welfare promises. However, the party also faced scrutiny following a tragic crowd crush at a Karur rally in September 2025 that claimed 41 lives, raising questions about organizational preparedness. Voters in Pollachi should note that Ramanathan presents as a clean candidate with no criminal cases, but also comes with no verifiable record of public service, legislative experience, or demonstrated commitment to constituency issues. His candidacy appears to be part of TVK's broader strategy of fielding new faces, but his ability to represent Pollachi's interests effectively remains untested and unproven.