“Vijayakanth: A Beacon of Tamil Nadu’s Cinema and Politics”

Actor-politician Vijayakanth, the founder of DMDK, breathed his last on December 28 at a private hospital in Chennai. His health had worsened, leading to his admission to MIOT Hospital, where he was placed on ventilatory support due to pneumonia.

The final rites for the late Vijayakanth are scheduled to take place with complete state honors at the DMDK party office in Koyambedu, Tamil Nadu, on December 29, as announced by the party in a statement on Thursday.

According to the statement, the ceremony is set to commence around 4:45 pm on Friday. Chief Minister MK Stalin had previously declared that the DMDK leader would be laid to rest with state honors.

 “Vijayakanth’s Battle with Illness”

Facing health challenges since November this year, the actor-turned-politician’s condition led to his hospitalization. On December 15, Vijayakanth’s wife, Premalatha Vijayakanth, assumed the role of the general secretary of DMDK.

In her inaugural address as General Secretary, Premalatha Vijayakanth affirmed her dedication to the party and its members. Addressing in Tamil, she stated, “Vijayakanth has entrusted me with the responsibility of the General Secretary position. This party was established for the well-being of the people, and I will collaborate closely with all of you.”

“Vijayakanth’s Early Life and Beginnings in Cinema”

Vijayakanth, renowned as ‘Captain’ due to his portrayal of military roles in cinema, ventured into politics in 2005 by founding the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) party. The party’s first electoral outing occurred at the 2006 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections, where it succeeded in gaining 10 percent of the overall vote share. In 2011, Vijayakanth collaborated with the AIADMK for the Assembly elections. This alliance resulted in a triumphant outcome for the coalition led by Jayalalithaa, consequently elevating Vijayakanth to the position of Leader of the Opposition. Vijayakanth’s assertive exchanges with Jayalalithaa in the Assembly drew notable attention, underlining his willingness to contest entrenched political institutions and to undermine the longstanding supremacy of Dravidian parties in Tamil Nadu’s political sphere.

“Vijayakanth’s Political Accomplishments”

Vijayakanth retained his role as Leader of the Opposition within the Tamil Nadu Assembly from 2011 to 2016. However, due to ideological discrepancies, the DMDK decided to cut off its association with the AIADMK. This led to a considerable number of DMDK MLAs resigning. Holding the office of Member of the Legislative Assembly two times, Vijayakanth represented the constituencies of Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam.

Condolences Emerge for Vijayakanth:

In the aftermath of Vijayakanth’s demise, his followers, revered politicians, and esteemed colleagues from the cinema world have expressed their deep-felt condolences.Additionally, DMDK supporters are in mourning over the death of their esteemed leader, Vijayakanth.

The unexpected loss of actor and DMDK chief Captain Vijayakanth has also resulted in an outpouring of grief from his followers and the DMDK party members. Many expressed their sorrow over his departure, reflecting the profound effect the actor and political leader had on his supporters. His influence and popularity, both in the world of cinema and politics, were clearly evident in the reactions following his demise.

Vijayakanth’s Funeral: A State Honor and Public Mourning:

The Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing profound grief, announced, “The news of Thiru Vijayakanth Ji’s death profoundly distresses me. Being a legendary figure in the Tamil cinema industry, his captivating portrayals resonated with in numerous individuals. As a political figure, his relentless commitment to public service indelibly imprinted on the political topography of Tamil Nadu. His departure creates a gap that will be challenging to fill. I was fortunate to share a close camaraderie with him, and I remember our exchanges throughout the years with great affection. At this moment of solemnity, my thoughts extend to his family, devotees, and extensive followers. Om Shanti.”

Rahul Gandhi, a prominent Congress leader, has professed profound sorrow following the death of Vijayakanth, noting his significant influence in both the film and political arenas. He extended heartfelt condolences to the family and admirers of the deceased during this time of tribulation.

On a similar note, K Annamalai, the Tamil Nadu BJP chief, mourned Vijayakanth’s loss on Thursday. In his remarks, he highlighted the late DMDK chief’s substantial contribution to the South Indian film industry and his commitment to addressing underprivileged workers’ issues.