In the lead-up to the 2026 Tamil Nadu assembly elections, small businesses are experiencing a surge in demand for custom products reflecting political themes. Home baker K S Indu Vikasini from Coimbatore created a 5kg cake for AIADMK candidate S P Velumani, which garnered attention and inquiries from various political party cadres. Similarly, tailor K Subha has received 200 orders for embroidered t-shirts featuring party logos. Newcomer R Hari specializes in printed t-shirts, noting that orders primarily come from Chennai and Salem. The trend extends to bridal boutiques, with Madhumathi M reporting a significant increase in orders for TVK-themed blouses after a viral video. Political figures are also engaging with local businesses through events that involve cake cutting and wearing party merchandise. However, some bakers, like N Suman from Madurai, express caution about posting their work online to avoid alienating customers from different political affiliations. This election season not only boosts small businesses but also highlights the unique blend of politics and local entrepreneurship in Tamil Nadu.