Скачать или смотреть From AIADMK's two leaves to Vijay's whistle: How symbols create identity?

#electionsymbol #tamilnaduelections2026 #aiadmksymbol #tvkvijaysymbol #jayalalitha #mgr #vck
Elections in India are not just about personalities or policies; they are also about symbols. Introduced during the first general election in 1951 to help a largely illiterate electorate, election symbols became visual shortcuts for voter choice. Over time, they evolved into the very identities of political parties—Lotus for the BJP, Hand for Congress, Two Leaves for AIADMK, Rising Sun for DMK. Vijay’s TVK receiving the Whistle symbol fits into this tradition, showing how symbols can feel culturally and emotionally loaded, sometimes even prophetic.

The power of symbols became starkly visible after MGR’s death, when the AIADMK split between Janaki Ramachandran and Jayalalithaa. With the Two Leaves frozen, factions adopted new symbols—roosters and doves—leading to bizarre campaigns involving live birds, many of which died due to neglect. Public backlash forced the Election Commission to temporarily remove animal symbols.

Symbols can also turn violent. In 2019’s Ponparappi clashes, the breaking of a pot—the VCK’s symbol—sparked caste-based attacks. These episodes show that election symbols are not mere art; they are political power, capable of mobilising loyalty or unleashing conflict.

Video Editor: Vasu N.
Camera: Thirumal
Visuals: Express Photos, ANI
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