Captain Vijayakanth Passes Away At 71: PM Modi, Others Pay Tribute To The Leader

DMDK founder-leader and Tamil actor Vijayakanth passed away in Chennai on Thursday following an illness at the age of 71. He was on ventilatory support after he tested positive for Covid-19.

Earlier in the day, the party took to its official X handle and informed that Vijayakanth was admitted to a hospital and put on ventilator support after he complained of breathing problems.

Meanwhile, the hospital where the actor-turned-politician was admitted, informed that Vijayakanth was battling pneumonia and passed away on Thursday morning. “Captain Vijayakanth was on ventilatory support following his admission for pneumonia. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, he passed away in the morning on December 28, 2023,” the hospital said in a press release.

PM Modi Expresses Condolences

Expressing his condolences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote that he is extremely saddened by the passing away of Thiru Vijayakanth Ji.

“A legend of the Tamil film world, his charismatic performances captured the hearts of millions. As a political leader, he was deeply committed to public service, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. His passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill. He was a close friend and I fondly recall my interactions with him over the years. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, fans and numerous followers. Om Shanti,” he added.

Tributes pour-in for Vijayakanth

Following the news of Vijayakanth’s demise, several politicians, actors and party supporters paid their heartfelt condolences to the leader.

The DMDK supporters were seen crying and mourning after learning about the death of actor-turned-politician Captain Vijayakanth.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin reached the residence of DMDK chief Captain Vijayakanth in Chennai. State Health Minister Ma Subramaniam joined Stalin to pay his tributes to the leader.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah took to X and wrote, “Deeply saddened to learn about the passing of DMDK leader and respected film veteran Vijayakanth Ji. Affectionately referred to as the captain, Vijaykanth Ji inspired patriotism among people both through his onscreen and offscreen roles. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti Shanti.”

Actor-politician Kamal Haasan also shared a heartfelt note on X in honour of DMDK founder Vijayakanth. “The news of the death of my beloved brother Vijayakanth, the founder of the National Progressive Dravida Association, a unique actor and captain of Tamil cinema, who was loved by all, is deeply saddened.”

“He lived with humanity in every action. He was the creator of innovative ideas in Tamil Nadu politics. He had a helping hand extended to the poor. Fearless courage was his hallmark. Vijayakanth, a revolutionary artist who made his mark in both the fields of cinema and politics, will remain forever in our memories. I offer my heartfelt condolences to all his family, volunteers and fans who are grieving his loss,” Hassan added in his post in Tamil.

“He was a captain not only for me but for everyone,” said Indian choreographer and film director Prabhudeva, adding, ” He was a great person. I have never seen such a hero. Some may not believe what I am saying. Vijayakanth sir was such a great hero. A very good man. Can someone be that good? He was.”

“Rest in peace Vijayakanth sir! You’ll never be forgotten!” Actor Sriya Reddy wrote on X.

Congress leader and former Finance Minister P Chidambaram also paid his condolences to DMDK founder and said, “I express my deep sorrow and condolence on the passing away of Mr. Vijaykanth, the founder of TMU His family also belongs to the party My deepest sympathies to the actors Mr. Vijaykanth may his soul rest in peace.”