Tamil Nadu: Veteran Actor And DMDK Founder Vijayakanth Passes Away At 71 After Testing Positive For Covid

Renowned actor and founder of the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), Vijayakanth, affectionately known as 'Captain,' breathed his last at a private hospital in Chennai today (28 December) after an extended illness. He was 71 years old.

In an initial medical bulletin issued by MIOT International Hospital, it was revealed that Vijayakanth had tested positive for Covid-19 and was receiving ventilator support.

Subsequent updates from the hospital confirmed the unfortunate demise of the legendary actor.

Vijayakanth had been admitted to a private hospital in November and was discharged after nearly three weeks of hospitalisation.

On 14 December, he made his first public appearance since discharge to participate in the DMDK’s executive and general council meeting, during which his wife, Premalatha Vijayakanth, was announced as the party’s new general secretary.

Born as Vijayaraj on 25 August 1952, in Madurai, Vijayakanth marked his entry into the film industry with 'Iniikum Ilamai' in 1979.

Renowned for his powerful action sequences and fiery dialogues, his notable films include Senthoora Poove and Pulan Visaranai among others.

Additionally, Vijayakanth headed the actors’ body called Nadigar Sangam.

In 2005, he ventured into politics by establishing his political party and secured victory from the Virudhachalam constituency in the Tamil Nadu Assembly polls held the following year.

Vijayakanth played a pivotal role in the 2011 assembly polls by forming an alliance with AIADMK, leading his party to secure 29 seats and emerge as the state’s primary opposition.

However, facing consecutive defeats in subsequent elections, his party witnessed a decline in vote share, and Vijayakanth's health challenges prevented him from actively participating in public events.