Actor Vijayakanth Passes Away, Was On Ventilator Support After Testing Covid Positive

Vijayakanth Passed Away: Vijayakanth, the founder-leader of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) and a prominent actor, has passed away at the age of 71. His passing was confirmed by officials from Miot Hospital, where he was admitted and received ventilator support.

On Thursday morning, DMDK's official statement confirmed Vijayakanth's positive Covid-19 diagnosis and his need for ventilator support. A subsequent bulletin from the hospital later confirmed his passing. However, the hospital's statement mentioned that he had pneumonia.

"Captain Vijayakanth was on ventilatory support following his admission for pneumonia. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, he passed away on the morning of December 28, 2023," read a statement from the hospital.

Previously, Vijayakanth had been hospitalized in November due to pulmonary disease and was discharged following nearly three weeks of treatment.

On December 14, he made his first public appearance since his discharge, participating in the DMDK's executive and general council meeting. During this gathering, his wife, Premalatha Vijayakanth, was appointed as the party's new general secretary.

Born as Vijayaraj in Madurai, Vijayakanth was renowned for his intense action sequences and fiery dialogues. He entered the film industry with his debut in "Iniikum Ilamai" in 1979. Throughout his career, he starred in numerous films and also served as the leader of the Nadigar Sangam. Among his notable movies are "Senthoora Poove," "Pulan Visaranai," "Chatriyan," "Captain Prabhakaran," "Chinna Gounder," "Sethupathi IPS," "Honest Raj," "Vanathai Pola," "Ramana," among others.

Vijayakanth: From Silver Screen To Political Realm: A Pivotal Figure In Tamil Nadu Politics

With an illustrious career in Tamil cinema before entering politics, Vijayakanth has been a significant figure in the state's political landscape. He notably served as the Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from 2011 to 2016. His transition from a successful actor, producer, and director to a prominent political figure led him to establish and lead the DMDK as its chairman in the Tamil Nadu legislative assembly.

Vijayakanth's political journey includes two terms as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, representing the constituencies of Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam. His role as the founder and key figure in the DMDK has marked him as a crucial presence in Tamil Nadu politics, garnering both support and attention across the state.