Senior Kollywood star hero Vijayakant, who founded Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) and was affectionately referred to as “Captain” by his fans, died at the age of 71 following complications resulting from pneumonia exacerbated by COVID-19.
Prior to his death on December 28, he was in need of ventilator assistance due to health issue, having been admitted to a hospital in Chennai on November 18. Great Star for his film career, Vijayakant transitioned into TN politics, gaining notable success, second only to MGR in the great of actors turned politicians.
Unlike M. Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa, who inherited their parties, Vijayakant built DMDK from scratch. His last public appearance was on December 14 during a party meeting where his wife, Premalatha Vijayakanth, was elected as the general secretary.
His journey from cinema to politics made him a significant figure in Tamil Nadu’s political world, leaving behind a legacy as an actor turned influential politician, garnering immense support and following during his tenure.
