Tamil Actor and DMDK Founder Vijayakanth Dies at 71

Known as 'Captain', Vijayakanth was a significant political figure who challenged AIADMK and DMK dominance in Tamil Nadu.

Vijayakanth, the founder-leader of the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) and a renowned Tamil actor, passed away on December 28, 2023, at the age of 71.
He was admitted to MIOT International hospital for pneumonia and was on ventilatory support.
Known as 'Captain', Vijayakanth had a successful career in the Tamil film industry and served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly twice.
He emerged as a strong political challenge to AIADMK leader J Jayalalithaa and DMK president M Karunanidhi in the 2000s, shaking the AIADMK and DMK with his party's vote share.
Vijayakanth's wife, Premalatha, formally assumed leadership of the DMDK on December 14, 2023.