Vijayakanth death: Jr NTR, Kamal Haasan, Trisha and others pay tribute to Captain

Tamil actor and former leader of the opposition in the Tamil Nadu assembly, Vijayakanth, passed away on Thursday at a private hospital in Chennai. The 71-year-old had founded Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK). He was on ventilator support following his admission for pneumonia. Soon after the news broke on the internet, several stars from the entertainment industry mourned the actor’s death and offered their condolences to the family members.

Celebrities pay tribute to Vijayakanth

Officials at Miot Hospital confirmed his death. The actor, known by fans as the "Captain" for his portrayal of military characters, was admitted for the treatment of pneumonia and was on ventilator support. He tested positive for Covid-19. Following the news of his tragic death, celebrities mourned the demise and prayed for him.

Jr NTR wrote, "Saddened to learn about Vijayakanth Garu's passing. A true powerhouse in both cinema and politics. May his soul find eternal peace. My thoughts are with his family and friends."

Meanwhile, Kamal Haasan offered his condolences and wrote on X, "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 Tamilnadu 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," he concluded.

Chiyaan Vikram expressed his grief and sorrow over the news and wrote, “Saddened to hear the passing of one of the most loving and caring beings ever. We will miss you Captain!”

Trisha also paid tribute to Captian and wrote, "RIP CaptainLots of love and strength to Premalatha ma’am and his family.I’ll forever remember your kindness"

All we need to know about Vijayakanth

Vijayakanth founded DMDK in 2005, challenging the supremacy of former CMs J. Jayalalithaa and M. Karunanidhi. He was a successful actor, producer, and director, serving as LoP twice, representing the constituencies of Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam. He is survived by his wife, Premalatha, and two sons.

Vijayakanth, a successful action hero, earned the title "Puratchi Kalaignar," meaning revolutionary artist. He made his debut with 'Inikkum Ilamai' in 1979, as a villain and went on to become an action icon in the 1980s and 1990s.

His superhit movie 'Sattam Oru Iruttarai' was remade in Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada languages. In 1984, he had 18 releases, becoming the only Tamil cinema actor to release maximum films in a year in the lead role. He appeared in 154 movies and was one of the most adored film personalities in the Tamil film industry.

Vijayakanth had declared that he would not accept donations for his political party. PM Modi had given a special reference to him in the NDA leaders' meeting and referred to him as his friend. He was also criticised for making objectionable gestures in public, often towards journalists.

(With inputs from IANS)