Tamil actor-politician Captain Vijaykanth is no more

HYDERABAD: The renowned Tamil actor and founder of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), Vijayakanth, passed away at the age of 71 in the early hours of today. Succumbing to a prolonged illness, he was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Chennai.

In an official statement, the hospital conveyed, “Captain Vijayakanth was on ventilatory support following his admission for pneumonia. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, he passed away in the morning on 28th December 2023.”

Reports indicate that Vijayakanth had tested positive for Covid-19 and faced respiratory challenges. For more than a month, he had been in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), relying on artificial respiration through a ventilator. Despite the dedicated efforts of medical professionals, Vijayakanth could not be saved.

Affectionately known as ‘Captain’ by his fans, Vijayakanth was acclaimed for his impassioned speeches. In the past, he held the position of the leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Telangana Legislative Assembly.

Owing to declining health, Vijayakanth had withdrawn from active politics, with his wife and son overseeing the management of the DMDK. The unexpected news of his passing has left his fans in a state of shock.