List of governors of Tamil Nadu

The governor of Tamil Nadu is the constitutional head and the representative of the president of India. In the state of Tamil Nadu, the governor holds an important position in ensuring that the administration functions according to the constitution of India. They are appointed by the president and serve as the nominal executive authority of the state. The governor’s official residences are the Lok Bhavan, located in Chennai and Udhagamandalam. The governor performs various duties, such as giving assent to bills passed by the state legislative assembly, appointing the chief minister, and overseeing the constitutional functioning of the state government. Although the real executive power lies with the council of ministers headed by the chief minister, the governor plays a vital role in maintaining the constitutional framework and stability of the state administration.

The current incumbent is Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, who has been serving as an additional charge since 12 March 2026.