'Captain' Vijayakanth, Actor and Founder of DMDK, Breathes His Last in Chennai.
Vijayakanth, the actor-turned-politician who founded the DMDK, has sadly passed away in Chennai due to an illness, as reported by sources from the hospital.
Actor-turned-politician and founder of the DMDK party, Vijayakanth, breathed his last at a private hospital in Chennai on December 28. His health had worsened, leading to his admission to MIOT Hospital, where he was placed on ventilatory support due to pneumonia, according to the hospital sources.
Earlier today, it was reported that Vijayakanth, the leader of the DMDK party, had tested positive for COVID and was placed on a ventilator due to respiratory issues. However, the hospital later clarified that he was battling pneumonia. Sources from the hospital revealed that the party had issued the statement before the results of the second round of samples were available.
In the latest development, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced that the actor and DMDK chief would be laid to rest with State Honours.
Vijayakanth had been grappling with health problems since November of this year. On December 15, his wife, Premalatha Vijayakanth, assumed the role of the general secretary of DMDK.
In her inaugural address as the General Secretary, Premalatha Vijayakanth expressed her dedication to the party and its members. Speaking in Tamil, she stated, "I have been entrusted with the responsibility of the General Secretary position by Vijayakanth. This party was established for the well-being of the people, and I will be working closely with all of you.
The Political Journey of Vijayakanth:
Known by the moniker "Captain" for his portrayal of military roles on the silver screen, Vijayakanth transitioned into politics in 2005, establishing the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) party. The party entered the political arena in the 2006 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections, securing 10 percent of the total vote share.
In 2011, Vijayakanth formed an alliance with the AIADMK in the Assembly elections, contributing to their victory and subsequently becoming the Leader of the Opposition. His spirited exchanges with Jayalalithaa in the Assembly captured public attention, signaling a potential shift in the longstanding dominance of Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu's political scene.
Vijayakanth held the position of Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly from 2011 to 2016. However, due to disagreements, the DMDK parted ways with the AIADMK, leading to a series of resignations by DMDK MLAs. Serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly twice, Vijayakanth represented the Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam constituencies.
Tributes Flow in for Vijayakanth:
Supporters, politicians, and members of the film industry expressed their heartfelt condolences upon learning about the demise of Captain Vijayakanth.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his sorrow, stating, Deeply saddened by the loss of Thiru Vijayakanth Ji. A legend in the Tamil film industry, his captivating performances won the hearts of millions. As a political leader, he was devoted to public service, leaving an indelible mark on Tamil Nadu's political landscape. His departure creates a void that will be difficult to fill. He was a dear friend, and I cherish the memories of our interactions over the years. In this somber moment, my thoughts are with his family, fans, and countless followers. Om Shanti.
DMDK supporters are grieving the passing of actor and DMDK leader Captain Vijayakanth.
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