‘Major loss for film industry,’ CM Stalin: ‘Captain’ Vijayakanth dead

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin expressed his deep condolences on Thursday regarding the passing of Vijayakanth, the chief of the DMDK party and a prominent actor. CM Stalin described it as a tragic loss for Tamil Nadu and the film industry, expressing shock and sorrow at the news of Vijayakanth’s death at the age of 71 in Chennai.

Vijaykanth was tested positive with Covid-19 earlier in the day after which he died. “The news of the demise of dear friend and National Progressive Dravidian Association President, Captain Vijayakanth has caused great shock and pain,” CM Stalin said in a statement issued from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO).

CM Stalin visited Vijayakanth’s residence to pay his respects and issued a statement from the Chief Minister’s Office, conveying sympathy to the late leader’s family, the National Progressive Dravidian Association volunteers, the film industry, and fans. The statement also announced that Vijayakanth would be laid to rest with state honors, a tribute extended on behalf of the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also offered condolences, acknowledging Vijayakanth’s significant contributions to both cinema and politics. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Vijayakanth as a legend in the Tamil film world, expressing deep sadness over his passing. BJP’s Tamil Nadu president K Annamalai similarly mourned the loss, emphasizing that despite Vijayakanth’s departure, his name and legacy would endure in the hearts and minds of the people.

Widely known as ‘Captain,’ Vijayakanth had a successful career in the Tamil film industry and founded the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazgam in 2005. He served as the leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly from 2011-2016 and was a two-time Member of the Legislative Assembly, representing the Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam constituencies.