A film star stepping into politics and winning votes is not new in India. But what happened in Tamil Nadu this week still caught many off guard.

Actor Vijay, in his first-ever election, has pushed his party Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) to the top, leaving behind the long-dominant Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam.

Related: Sandeep Reddy Vanga calls Vijay’s election win “real power”

For decades, power in the state moved between these two. That pattern is now broken.

Soon after the results, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted a message saying, “Gratitude to the voters… Congratulations to TVK on their impressive performance.”

The 51-year-old actor-turned-politician replied in a careful tone. “Thank you… The well-being of our people remains our only goal… we shall focus on the State's progress and the welfare of people of Tamil Nadu.”

The Beast actor also acknowledged a message from opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, writing, “We shall remain committed to excellence in public service… Beyond politics, we shall prioritize for the welfare of the people of Tamil Nadu.”

The win is being seen as more than just numbers. It marks the first time since 1977 that Tamil Nadu may have a government not led by DMK or AIADMK.

Vijay had refused alliances before the polls, even as others chose sides. Now that gamble seems to have worked.

As he gets closer to becoming the next chief minister, fans are also wondering whether his delayed film Jana Nayagan could truly become his last big-screen release.