In a move that has stirred political circles, the newly sworn-in Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and TVK leader, Vijay Joseph, has appointed his personal astrologer, Thiru Ricky Radhan Pandit Vetrivel, as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD). The appointment orders were issued this Tuesday, just three days after Vijay assumed office following a historic performance by his party in the April 2026 Assembly elections.
The Astrologer’s Accurate Prediction
Vetrivel, a well-known astrologer who claims to have previously advised former CM Jayalalithaa, gained significant attention for accurately predicting Vijay’s victory and rise to the Chief Minister’s post over a year ago. Ahead of the results, Vetrivel had dismissed exit polls, confidently asserting that TVK would secure a massive mandate. His predictions held true as TVK won 108 seats, allowing Vijay to form a government with the support of the Congress, Left parties, and VCK, effectively ending the decades-long dominance of the DMK and AIADMK.
A Strategic Response to Udhayanidhi Stalin
The timing of the appointment is being viewed as politically significant. It came shortly after Opposition Leader Udhayanidhi Stalin reiterated his call to “eradicate Sanatana Dharma” during an Assembly session. By appointing a prominent spiritual and astrological figure to a key administrative position immediately after those remarks, Vijay is seen as sending a clear signal that his government intends to respect all beliefs and maintain a balanced approach toward tradition and administration.
Strengthening the New Administration
Since taking the oath on Sunday, CM Vijay has been focused on consolidating his governance and political framework. The inclusion of Vetrivel in the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) as OSD (Political) suggests that the “Thalapathy” values the counsel of the man who foresaw his political ascent. Vetrivel’s presence has been noted in several of Vijay’s recent personal and political events, indicating his influential role in the Chief Minister’s inner circle as the new government begins its tenure.
