Chennai was cloaked in mourning as thousands gathered to pay their last respects to Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) founder and actor Vijayakanth, lovingly referred to as ‘Captain’ by his followers. The wave of grief and respect culminated on December 29 at the DMDK office in Koyambedu, as the public and influential personalities from politics and entertainment joined to bid him a tearful adieu.
Shanmuga Pandian, son of the late DMDK chief, took a moment during this overwhelming occasion to express gratitude towards those who had offered their condolences and stood by their side during this trying time. In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram stories, Pandian acknowledged the masses who had convened to honor his father, stating, “Thank you all for extending your heartfelt condolences. And to the thousands and lakhs of people who showed up to pay their respects standing on roads and bridges, your support shows us the kind of legacy our dad has left behind. The kind of life he has lived and the love he has earned. All your support provides solace to our family as we come to terms with this loss. Rest in peace Dad and our captain.” Along with his words, he included an evocative image of Vijayakanth amidst his admirers.
The somber affair saw people from all walks of life converge at the Island Ground and DMDK offices, demonstrating the profound impact Vijayakanth had made on their lives. His farewell was graced with full state honors, a testament to his significance in both the cinematic and political spheres. The procession that followed his cortege from Island Ground to the Koyambedu office was a moving display of the love and reverence people had for Vijayakanth. The pathos of the crowd’s emotions was palpable, and not even Vijayakanth’s family, including his wife Premalatha Vijayakanth and his two sons, could contain their sorrow.
High-ranking dignitaries such as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan, and a host of senior ministers were in attendance to partake in the final rites. Among the many who came to pay their homages were individuals such as Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi, numerous state ministers and celebrated figures from the film industry, including actors Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan.
The Island Ground, which held Vijayakanth’s mortal remains for public homage, saw an outpouring of supporters who queued up early in the morning on December 28 to pay their respects. The journey of Vijayakanth’s body from the Island Ground to the DMDK office was marked by solemn reverence and was attended by a constellation of political figures including M K Stalin and MPs as well as the Telangana Governor and Puducherry Lieutenant Governor.
Vijayakanth left an indelible mark on Tamil cinema with a legacy of over 150 films, predominantly in the action genre. His role as the President of the Nadigar Sangam underscored his dedication to supporting the welfare of cinema artists. In 2005, he founded the DMDK and rose to a significant political stature when the party became the principal opposition in the 2011 state elections.
Vijayakanth’s demise on December 28 was attributed to complications from COVID-19 and a prolonged illness. His contribution to cinema and politics, as well as his philanthropic efforts, were remembered by those who came to honor his memory from all avenues, including colleagues from the industry and political adversaries, showcasing the respect he commanded across different spectrums.
As the final rituals were performed, Vijayakanth was laid to rest within the party office premises amidst the chants and prayers that echoed the loss of a man who was revered as much for his on-screen heroism as for his real-life leadership. The Captain’s voyage may have ended, but the legacy of his works and deeds remains firmly etched in the hearts of those he inspired and led.
