Actor-politician Vijayakanth, affectionately known as Captain, passed away on December 28 at a private hospital in Chennai due to pneumonia. He, at 71, held a special place in the hearts of Tamil Nadu residents as one of the most cherished actors and politicians. Earlier in the day, the party posted on its official X handle, informing that Vijayakanth had been admitted to a hospital and placed on ventilator support due to breathing problems. He was tested positive for COVID.
The news of Vijayakanth’s death profoundly shocked everyone in Tamil Nadu.
In November, Vijayakanth’s health deteriorated, leading to his admission to MIOT Hospital in Chennai. Doctors observed him for 14 days due to cough and throat pain. Following his passing, his body was brought to his residence, with plans to transport it shortly to the DMDK office.
Vijayakanth’s Life and Career
Vijayakanth, originally named Vijayaraj Alagarswami, was born on August 25, 1952, to KN Alagarswami and Aandal Azhagarswami. Hailing from Madurai, he became a prominent figure in Tamil cinema, with his films extending to Telugu and Hindi audiences. Bestowed with the title ‘Puratchi Kalingar’ (revolutionary artist), he gained renown for portraying patriotic characters throughout his career.
Survived by his wife, Premalatha, and two sons, Vijaya Prabhakaran and Shanmuga Pandian, Vijayakanth was more than just an actor. Revered as one of the most dedicated artists in Tamil cinema and celebrated for his humanitarian spirit, he earned the affectionate moniker ‘Captain.’ His legacy includes not only cinematic brilliance but also a reputation for extending a helping hand to those in need.
In 1979, Vijayakanth made his debut in MA Kaja’s ‘Inikkum Ilamai’ and achieved success two years later with SA Chandrasekhar’s ‘Sattam Oru Iruttarai’. Initially cast as a villain, he garnered immense fan love. Transitioning to lead roles after ‘Om Shakti’ in 1982, he played a dutiful police officer in numerous films.
The turning point came with ‘Captain Prabhakaran,’ marking his 100th film and earning him the title ‘Captain.’ In the 80s, he portrayed revolutionary roles and, in 1984, set a record with almost 18 film releases. Additionally, he starred in Kollywood’s first 3D film titled ‘Annai Bhoomi 3D.’
Vijayakanth: The Action Hero
Venturing into commercial cinema, Vijayakanth not only delivered hit films but also became renowned for his gravity-defying stunts. In the 90s, he featured prominently in crime thrillers, with the iconic cop film ‘Sathriyan,’ produced by Mani Ratnam, standing out.
Celebrated as a hero in rural Tamil Nadu, Vijayakanth’s participation in village-based films solidified his connection with audiences. In 1992, he left an indelible mark with the iconic ‘Chinna Gounder,’ now considered a timeless classic. His superhit films in the 90s, including ‘Sethupathi IPS,’ ‘Honest Raj,’ ‘Ulavuthurai,’ ‘Periyanna,’ and ‘Kannupada Poguthaiya,’ contributed to his status as a beloved action hero during that era.
Vijayakanth’s Political Journey
On September 14, 2005, Vijayakanth declared the establishment of his political party, Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), in Madurai. Within a year, he emerged as a significant leader in the Tamil Nadu assembly election, securing one seat and 10 per cent of the vote share.
Notably, he gained appreciation for refraining from seeking donations for his party, emphasizing that he funded it personally. The DMDK, standing independently, showcased its strength in the Local Body election.
In 2011, Vijayakanth aligned with the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), contesting in 41 constituencies and winning 29. This victory surpassed the seats secured by DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam). Despite initial collaboration, he and Jayalalithaa of AIADMK had a fallout over the years. In the 2014 parliament election, DMK allied with the BJP and other smaller parties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged Vijayakanth as a friend in a political meeting. However, he later lost his Leader of Opposition position in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.
