On July 22, 2025, With a high-octane campaign trail from Kumbakonam to Thanjavur via Papanasam, AIADMK General Secretary and Tamil Nadu Opposition Leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami (EPS) stirred the political momentum. This leg of his Makkalai Kappom, Thamizhagathai Meetpom (Protect the People, Reclaim Tamil Nadu) campaign was a bold move to rally support ahead of the 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.

Starting in Kumbakonam, EPS addressed a diverse crowd, including weavers, at a local hotel. He promised that an AIADMK-led government would provide handloom silk sarees under the Gold for Thaali scheme, a pledge aimed at empowering local artisans. His speech resonated with the audience, emphasizing AIADMK’s commitment to economic upliftment and cultural preservation.

Moving to Papanasam, a constituency with a significant minority population, EPS delivered a powerful message of unity. He stressed that AIADMK transcends caste and religious divides, urging voters not to fall for rival DMK’s narrative that paints AIADMK as aligned with communal forces. “Our alliances are for elections, but our principles are permanent,” he declared, highlighting the party’s inclusive ethos and its welfare schemes for minorities during past regimes.

The campaign culminated in Thanjavur, where EPS addressed a massive gathering near the Corporation headquarters on Gandhiji Road. He accused the DMK of misleading voters by focusing on national politics to deflect from their governance failures. EPS also announced a festive promise: from 2026, an AIADMK government would gift sarees to women during Deepavali, reinforcing the party’s focus on welfare.

EPS’s speeches blended sharp critiques of the DMK with a vision for a prosperous Tamil Nadu, energizing cadres and supporters. AIADMK showcased its unwavering commitment to regaining leadership in 2026 through this dynamic campaign day.

Also Read: AIADMK’s Road to 2026: EPS’s Rally Across Thiruvarur to Kumbakonam