The charismatic leader of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) and celebrated actor, Vijayakant, breathed his last on Thursday, December 28, 2023, in Chennai after a valiant fight against pneumonia at the age of 71. A towering figure in both the Indian film industry and Tamil Nadu’s political sphere, the demise of Vijayakant marked the end of an era that saw the convergence of cinematic flair and astute political acumen.
The hospital where he was admitted confirmed that the veteran actor-politician had been on ventilator support due to severe breathing issues. He had contracted COVID-19, which further complicated his already delicate health condition.
Vijayakant, who is affectionately known as ‘Captain’ by his admirers, was an icon who successfully bridged the gap between the entertainment industry and politics. His health struggle became public when he was hospitalized on November 18, requiring “pulmonary support.” After nearly three weeks of medical care, he was discharged, only to return to the hospital two weeks later due to deteriorating health.
Only a couple of weeks before his demise, a frail yet determined Vijayakant made his last public appearance. On December 14, he attended the DMDK’s party executive and general council meeting, during which his wife, Premalatha Vijayakanth, was elected as the party’s general secretary.
Vijayakant’s journey in the limelight began in Tamil cinema, where he carved out a niche for himself as a beloved ‘angry young man’ and later as a mass hero, earning a legion of fans who celebrated every on-screen performance. His films resonated with the masses, establishing him firmly in the hearts of moviegoers.
However, it was his foray into politics that truly shook the foundations of Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. Following the footsteps of M.G. Ramachandran (MGR), Vijayakant was the only other film actor to achieve significant political success independently. Unlike his predecessors M. Karunanidhi and Jayalalithaa, who were groomed by mentors, Vijayakant was a self-made political figure, whose party DMDK emerged as a formidable third front in 2006, challenging the dominance of the two major Dravidian parties of Tamil Nadu.
This surge in political prominence led to a minority government led by M. Karunanidhi from 2006 to 2011, heavily reliant on the support of allies, evidencing the impact of Vijayakant’s political maneuvering.
The contrast between Vijayakant and his counterparts like Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, both superstars of Tamil cinema who considered politics, was stark. Vijayakant dove headfirst into the political arena, forming his own party and maintaining a consistent presence in the political discourse.
The reputed MIOT hospital, where Vijayakant was admitted, stated that despite their best efforts, the DMDK leader succumbed to his illness in the early hours of December 28. The news of his passing sent shockwaves across the state, with tributes pouring in from all quarters, including a heartfelt condolence message from the Prime Minister.
Vijayakant’s influence extended beyond his professional endeavors, as he was also known for his philanthropic work, touching many lives with his generosity and public service initiatives.
The legacy of ‘Captain’ Vijayakant, who began as the ‘angry young man’ of Tamil cinema and transcended into a mass hero and a political luminary, leaves behind a profound impact on both the cultural and political narratives of Tamil Nadu. His passing represents a significant loss not just to his followers and the public but also to the very ethos of a state where cinema and politics have often intertwined to shape its course.
