Fondly called the ‘Captain’ of Tamil cinema, actor and founder of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), Vijayakanth, passed away on Thursday. He breathed his last at a private hospital in Chennai where he was admitted for COVID-19. The actor was on ventilator support. He was 71 years old.
As the news of his death was made public, people took to social media to express their condolences. Many famous personalities wrote emotional notes for him. Tributes started pouring in for him on social media.
Mammootty talked about how Vijayakanth was a good friend, a great actor, and a wonderful human being. He wrote, “#Vijayakanth is no longer with us. He was a good friend of mine, a great actor, and a wonderful human being. His loss is deeply felt by the film fraternity, movie lovers, and personally, by me. My heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
N T Rama Rao Jr said how Vijayakanth was a powerhouse when it came to cinema and politics. He wrote, “Saddened to learn about Vijayakanth Garu's passing. A true powerhouse in both cinema and politics. May his soul find eternal peace. My thoughts are with his family and friends.”
Mohanlal said, “Peace be unto the soul of a great actor, a just politician and a kind human being - Vijayakanth sir. My heart goes out to his family, friends, fans and everyone who shares the pain of his loss. Om Shanti.”
Chiranjeevi also penned a note for Vijayakanth. He wrote, “Heartbroken to know that our ‘Puratchi Kalingar’, ‘Captain’ Vijayakanth is no more. He was a wonderful human being, Hero of the Masses, a multi faceted personality and an astute politician. Though he never acted in straight Telugu films, he is hugely popular and loved by the Telugu Audiences too. Our beloved ‘Captain’ has left us too soon leaving an irreplaceable void! My heartfelt condolences to his numerous fans, family and well wishers. May his soul rest in peace.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said how he was saddened by his demise. He wrote, “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. He was a close friend and I fondly recall my interactions with him over the years. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, fans and numerous followers. Om Shanti.”
Actor Sonu Sood shared a picture of Vijayakanth on his Instagram and wrote how he owed his career to him.
Kamal Haasan also paid his tributes. He called the actor “a revolutionary artist.”
The news of Vijayakanth’s death has sent shockwaves across the country.
