Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) founder Vijayakanth on Thursday passed away in Chennai following illness. MIOT International in a press release said, "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."
Early on Thursday morning, his party DMDK released a statement and said Vijayakanth (71) was put on ventilator support. "Diagnostic tests confirmed coronavirus infection, the party said in a release, adding in view of difficulty in breathing, he has been put on ventilator support," it said.
Yesteryear Tamil actor and DMDK founder Vijayakanth has been unwell for quite some time and his wife Premalatha took over the reins of the party days ago.
He was the Opposition Leader in Tamil Nadu from 2011 to 2016. Before entering politics Vijayakanth was a successful actor, producer and director.
PM condoles
PM Modi tweeted "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. His passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill."
TN govt announces state honours for Vijayakanth's funeral
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin on Thursday announced full state honours for Vijayakanth's funeral. In his condolence message, Stalin expressed shock and grief over Vijayakanth's death and hailed him as an achiever; both as an actor and as a leader in public life. As a mark of homage, the government will accord full state honours for Vijayakanth's funeral, Stalin announced. The DMDK founder's death is a huge loss for Tamil Nadu and the world of cinema, the Chief Minister said and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family members and party workers.
