Actor and DMDK founder-leader Vijayakanth dies at 71 after testing positive for Covid
Vijayakanth
India's Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) party founder-chief and popular Tamil actor Vijayakanth, passed away at the age of 71 in Chennai on Thursday (Dec 28) following an illness.
MIOT International Hospital released a press statement saying, "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 28th December 2023."
He had tested positive for coronavirus.
Earlier, his party took to the official X handle and shared a post informing that Vijayakanth was admitted to a hospital and put on ventilator support after he complained of breathing problems.
As per news agency ANI reports, his mortal remains have been brought to his residence and will be taken to the DMDK office.
He was admitted to MIOT Hospital in Chennai earlier in the month of November after his health deteriorated.
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PM Modi condoles demise of Vijayakanth
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling the DMDK chief a "legend of Tamil film world," condoled his demise.
"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," PM Modi posted on his official handle on X.
The Indian prime minister further said that Vijayakanth's demise had left a void which is very hard to fill.
"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," Prime Minister Modi posted.
The Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Tamil Nadu President K Annamalai also expressed grief over the DMDK chief's demise.
"Captain Vijayakanth's demise is a loss for Tamil Nadu and the Tamil people. Though he is no longer with us, his name and legacy will live on in our hearts and minds," he said in a posting on social media platform x.
Revered as "Captain" by his fans, Vijayakanth's life is marked by a successful career in the Tamil film industry.
He founded the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazgam party in the year 2005.
Vijayakanth served as the leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly from the year 2011 to 2016.
(With inputs from agencies)