Team India’s mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy recently took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute for Tamil cinema superstar C. Joseph Vijay, affectionally hailed by millions as Thalapathy Vijay. The emotional post came after Chakravarthy watched Vijay’s farewell movie, Jana Nayagan, directed by H. Vinoth. Vijay officially retired from acting following the release of the film to dedicate his full focus to his political career, having recently assumed office as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu after a historic election victory with his party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

Varun Chakravarthy reacts emotionally to Thalapathy Vijay’s farewell film

Reflecting on his lifelong fandom, Chakravarthy posted an emotional note on his Instagram story expressing his gratitude to the actor. For the 34-year-old cricketer, Vijay was an integral part of growing up, with his admiration dating back to the actor’s classic 1997 romantic drama Kadhalukku Mariyadhai.

“@actorvijay Anna thanks for all these years !! I became a fan from kadhaluku mariyadhai!! You were a huge part of my childhood growing up!! Will miss you !! Lots of Anbu,” wrote Chakravarthy on his Instagram story.

The spinner also lauded director H. Vinoth and the entire crew of Jana Nayagan for delivering a movie packed with memorable fan moments to bid farewell to the superstar.

“Jananayagan!! Watta farewell movie!! Loved it every bit!! Congratulations @hvinoth.off and entire team for this movie with so many fan moments,” he added.

Chakravarthy’s connection to Thalapathy Vijay goes far beyond social media messages. The Tamil Nadu-born bowler is an ardent fan and proudly wears a tattoo on his left arm inspired by the poster artwork of Vijay’s 2013 blockbuster Thalaivaa. He previously shared how Vijay’s cinematic journey and larger-than-life leadership inspired his own unconventional path from architecture to international cricket.

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Recent injury setbacks keep mystery spinner out of Zimbabwe T20Is

While Chakravarthy found time to catch Vijay’s final cinematic venture, the cricketer has been navigating a challenging phase on the pitch. The craft spinner was ruled out of India’s three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe as he continues his recovery process.

The year 2026 has brought mixed fortunes for the Indian bowler. After struggling to maintain his rhythm during the second half of India’s T20 World Cup campaign, Chakravarthy encountered multiple physical setbacks during the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Sustaining annoying finger and toe injuries forced him to miss several key fixtures for Kolkata Knight Riders.

Although he successfully returned to international duty during India’s five-match T20I series against England earlier this month, fitness management remains a priority. India’s selectors opted to rest him for the Zimbabwe tour to ensure complete recuperation. Fans now eagerly await Chakravarthy’s return to full match fitness, hoping to see the mystery spinner back at his top form on the international stage.

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