Mangaluru: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay arrived at Mangaluru International Airport on Friday afternoon before proceeding to the renowned Kollur Mookambika Temple in Udupi district to offer special prayers.
The visit attracted considerable public attention, with hundreds of fans and supporters gathering at the airport to catch a glimpse of the actor-turned-politician. Many supporters were seen carrying flags of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), reflecting the enthusiasm surrounding Vijay’s visit to the coastal region.
Warm reception at Mangaluru airport
Vijay arrived at Mangaluru International Airport in a special flight at around 12.30 pm. Soon after landing, he departed for Kollur by road amid tight security arrangements.
The chief minister’s arrival generated excitement among fans, many of whom had been waiting at the airport premises well before his arrival. Supporters cheered and waved party flags as his convoy left the airport for the temple town.
Airport authorities and security personnel coordinated arrangements to ensure smooth movement and crowd management during the brief stop in Mangaluru.
Special prayers planned at Kollur temple
After arriving in Mangaluru, Vijay travelled to the revered Kollur Mookambika Temple, one of South India’s most prominent pilgrimage centres. The temple attracts devotees from across the country, particularly from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
According to officials, the chief minister is scheduled to offer special prayers at the temple. The visit is being viewed as both a personal and spiritual pilgrimage following his assumption of office as Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
The Kollur Mookambika Temple has long been associated with political leaders and public figures seeking blessings before undertaking important responsibilities.
Extensive security arrangements in place
Given Vijay’s status as a Z+ category protectee, elaborate security measures were implemented throughout his visit. Authorities ensured that all prescribed security protocols were followed at the airport, along the travel route and at the temple premises.
Security personnel were deployed in large numbers to maintain order and facilitate the chief minister’s movement without disruption. Convoy security arrangements were also put in place in accordance with standard operating procedures.
Officials coordinated closely with Karnataka Police and the chief minister’s security team to ensure a smooth and secure visit.
Tamil Nadu Police accompany chief minister
According to Udupi Superintendent of Police Hariram Shankar, nearly 40 personnel from the Tamil Nadu Police accompanied Vijay during the visit. The contingent included senior officers such as a Deputy Inspector General (DIG) and a Superintendent of Police (SP), who formed part of the chief minister’s protection detail.
The presence of the specialised security team added an additional layer of protection throughout the journey from Mangaluru to Kollur.
Authorities monitored the movement closely while ensuring minimal inconvenience to the public along the route.
Continuing a tradition of Tamil Nadu leaders
Political observers noted that Vijay’s visit follows a tradition observed by several former Tamil Nadu chief ministers. Leaders including M.G. Ramachandran, Janaki Ramachandran and J. Jayalalithaa had also visited the Kollur Mookambika Temple after assuming office and sought the blessings of Goddess Mookambika.
The temple has maintained a strong connection with Tamil Nadu’s political and cultural landscape for decades, attracting leaders, film personalities and devotees from across the state.
Conclusion
Mangaluru witnessed heightened activity on Friday as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay arrived in the city en route to the Kollur Mookambika Temple. Amid enthusiastic crowds, tight security and widespread public interest, the visit underscored the enduring significance of the temple among Tamil Nadu’s political leadership and devotees.