Actor and politician, DMDK chief Vijayakanth passes away in Chennai

THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK

Chennai, Dec 28: The 71-year-old actor and DMDK head Vijayakanth passed away on Thursday at a private Chennai hospital. His party stated that he tested positive for Covid-19 and was hence on ventilator support. But according to the hospital’s statement, he had pneumonia.

The hospital released a statement that said, “Captain Vijayakanth was on ventilatory support following his admission for pneumonia. Despite the best efforts of medical staff he passed away in the morning on 28th December 2023.”

Faced health issues recently

On Tuesday, Vijayakanth was admitted to the hospital for a routine health examination. The party said at the time that Vijayakanth was healthy and would go home following the examinations.

On November 20, the DMDK chief had been admitted to a hospital earlier. At the hospital, he was receiving treatment for a respiratory ailment.

Vijayakanth has faced health challenges in recent times, leading him to reduce his involvement in active political affairs.

Chief Minister MK Stalin of Tamil Nadu has declared that the leader of DMDK will be given a funeral with complete state honours.

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PM Modi condoles demise

In a post on X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his sympathies on Vijayakanth’s passing.

“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. As a political leader, he was deeply committed to public service, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu’s political landscape,” PM Modi posted on X.

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. As a political leader, he was deeply committed to public service, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu’s political… pic.twitter.com/di0ZUfUVWo

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 28, 2023

“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,” he added.

Actor and two-time MLA

Following his triumphant career in the cinema industry, where he appeared in 154 films, Vijayakanth ventured into politics, which has significantly shaped his public persona.

He was the founder of the DMDK and represented the constituencies of Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam twice as a Member of the Legislative Assembly. His tenure as Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from 2011 to 2016 marked the pinnacle of his political career.