India (Commonwealth Union)_ DMDK founder-leader and acclaimed Tamil actor Vijayakanth passed away in Chennai at the age of 71 after testing positive for Covid-19. Earlier in the day, the party shared on its official handle that Vijayakanth had been admitted to the hospital and placed on ventilator support due to breathing difficulties. Following his demise, his body was brought to his residence and later taken to the DMDK office for a state funeral. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed his condolences, describing the news as a tragedy for the state and the film industry, evoking shock and pain.
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In a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office, CM Stalin expressed shock and pain over the demise of his “dear friend” and announced full state honors for Vijayakanth’s funeral. He stated, “The news of the demise of dear friend and National Progressive Dravidian Association President, Captain Vijayakanth, has caused great shock and pain”. The statement added, “The death of my dear friend Vijayakanth, fondly known by the Tamil people as Captain, is a tragedy for Tamil Nadu and the film industry. In this very sad hour, I express my deep condolences to Captain Vijayakanth’s family, including his wife Premalatha Vijayakanth, the volunteers of the National Progressive Dravidian Association, the film industry, and the fans”.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended condolences, referring to Vijayakanth as the ‘legend of Tamil film world.’ PM Modi hailed his charismatic performances and deep commitment to public service, acknowledging his lasting impact on Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. PM Modi took to his official handle on X and expressed, “Extremely saddened by the demise of Thiru Vijayakanth Ji. A legend of the Tamil film industry, his charismatic performances captured the hearts of millions. As a political leader, he was deeply committed to public service, leaving a lasting impact on the political landscape of Tamil Nadu”. He added, “His demise 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 situation, my thoughts and prayers are with his family, fans, and numerous followers. Om Shanti.”
Rahul Gandhi, Congress MP, conveyed his deep sadness over the loss, acknowledging Vijayakanth’s contributions to both cinema and politics. He said, “Deeply saddened by the death of DMDK founder, Thiru Vijayakanth ji. His contributions to cinema and politics have left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions. My heartfelt condolences to his family and fans during this difficult time”.
Popularly known as ‘Captain,’ and lovingly called ‘Black Diamond’ Vijayakanth had a distinguished career in the Tamil film industry, featuring in 154 movies before entering politics. During his tenure at the South Indian Artists’ Association (SIAA), formally referred to as Nadigar Sangam, Vijayakanth introduced revolutionary developments to the Southern film industry. Additionally, he founded his political party, Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazgam, in 2005 and served as the leader of the opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly from 2011-2016.
The Tamil Nadu Theatre Association announced the cancellation of morning shows across theaters in the state to mourn the legendary actor’s demise. Vijayakanth’s co-actors and industry peers, including Rajinikanth, Kamal Haasan, Sarathkumar, Kushboo, Vikram, Vijay Sethupathi, Mohanlal, Nazriya, Chiranjeevi, Jr. NTR, and others, conveyed their deep condolences. His significant contributions to the South Indian film industry, Tamil Nadu politics, and people were acknowledged by prominent personalities. The entire film fraternity is grieving the loss of this iconic figure.
