Review of “From Fanboys to Soldiers: The Politics of Following Without Thought” by Sivabalan Elangovan

Some articles come and go, but a few make us pause, reflect, and rethink the society we live in. Recently, I read one such piece that deserves to be shared and discussed.

When Fandom Replaces Responsibility: Reflections on The Wire’s Piece

I recently came across Sivabalan Elangovan’s article “From Fanboys to Soldiers: The Politics of Following Without Thought” published in The Wire, and I must say it is one of the most striking and thought-provoking pieces I have read in a long time. The writing style itself is marvellous—the introduction felt like the opening of a grand film, setting the tone with the flair of a star’s arrival.

One line that stayed with me was this: “No one cared if someone collapsed from heat or hunger, no one stopped to help.” This is not just an observation; it is a haunting question. Where is our humanity and empathy? If such indifference exists at mass gatherings, what happens when such individuals are entrusted with real power?

The article also forces us to re-examine the legacy of the self-respect and social justice movements. These were once powerful engines of transformation. Why do they seem weakened and ineffective today? What has been lost?

The author quotes: “Healthy adolescent growth requires three stages, self-awareness, identity formation and social responsibility.” Reading this, I could not help but wonder—which stage is missing in today’s generation? Perhaps parenting has failed to instill empathy, accountability, and critical thought with the same intensity as before.

Another compelling insight was about aggression. Too often, aggression is glorified as strength, when in fact, it is the killer of democracy, of independence, and of others’ rights. Aggression silences dialogue, weakens responsibility, and breeds intolerance. The question is: how do we reclaim a culture of thoughtfulness in an age dominated by spectacle and blind following?

The problem, as the article highlights, is not simply about Vijay or his fan base. Rather, they serve as an example of a larger social and political trend. That layered approach makes this piece powerful, and I rarely forward articles—but this one I personally shared with twenty people, individually, because it deserves such attention.

A suggestion I would add is for the author to write a follow-up comparing the DMK’s “whistle boys” during its formative years with today’s Vijay fan clubs. Such a comparison would not only be fascinating but also deeply illuminating in understanding how mobilization and fandom have shifted over time.

In sum, this article is more than journalism. It is a mirror held up to society—one that compels us to pause, reflect, and ask difficult but necessary questions. Kudos to Sivabalan Elangovan for writing with such clarity, courage, and impact.