Tamil Nadu: CM Stalin expressed grief over the demise of ‘Captain’ Vijayakanth
Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Thursday condoled the demise of DMDK chief and actor Vijayakanth.
Calling it a tragedy for Tamil Nadu and the film industry, CM Stalin said the news of the DMDK chief’s death brought “shock and pain”.
Vijayakanth died at the age of 71 in Chennai after testing positive for Covid-19 earlier in the day.
In a statement issued from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), CM Stalin said, “Deeply shocked and saddened by the news of the demise of dear friend and President of the National Progressive Dravidian Association, Captain Vijaykant.” CM Stalin has reached Vijayakanth’s Chennai residence to bid him last farewell.
“The demise of my dear friend Vijayakanth, fondly known as Captain to the Tamil people, is a tragedy for Tamil Nadu and the film industry. In this extremely sad situation, I express my condolences to the family of Captain Vijayakanth, including His sister Premlata Vijayakanth is also included.” National Progressive Dravidian Association volunteers, the film industry and fans,” the statement read. The statement further said that Vijayakanth will be cremated with state honours.
“Condolences from Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. As a tribute to Vijayakanth, his last journey will be accorded full state honours,” the statement said.
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also expressed condolences to the DMDK chief and said, “Deeply saddened by the demise of DMDK founder, Thiru Vijayakanth ji.”
He said, “His contribution to cinema and politics has left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions of people. My heartfelt condolences to his family and fans in this difficult time.”
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled Vijayakanth’s demise and called him a ‘giant of the Tamil film industry’.
“Deeply saddened by the demise of Thiru Vijayakanth ji. A legend of the Tamil film industry, his charismatic performance won the hearts of millions,” PM Modi posted from his official handle on Twitter.
Condoling the demise of the DMDK chief, BJP Tamil Nadu president K Annamalai posted earlier in the day, “Captain Vijayakanth’s demise is a loss to Tamil Nadu and the Tamil people. Though he is no longer with us, his name and legacy Will stay with us.” Remain alive in our hearts and minds.”
Vijayakanth, popularly known as ‘Captain’, has a successful career in the Tamil film industry.
He founded Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam in 2005.
Vijayakanth served as the Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from 2011–2016.
He served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly twice, representing Virudhachalam and Rishivandiam constituencies.
