Actor and founder of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) Captain Vijayakanth passed away at the age of 71. According to the hospital reports, he was placed on the ventilator support after he tested positive for Covid19, however, his health has deteriorated.
 

Vijayakanth, was born as Vijayaraj in Madurai. He was known for his powerful action sequences and fiery dialogues. He made his debut in the film, Iniikum Ilamai (1979). Vijayakanth, who went onto star in many other films, served as the leader of Nadigar Sangam. His popular films include Senthoora Poove, Pulan Visaranai, Chatriyan, Captain Prabhakaran, Chinna Gounder, Sethupathi IPS, Honest Raj, Vanathai Pola, Ramana among others.

Speaking of his political career, the actor turned politician in 2005 and founded his party Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK). After experiencing consecutive defeats in the recent elections, his party began to lose out on vote share and Vijayakanth’s health also sustained a setback leading him to refrain from attending public gatherings.

With over 150 film with his appearances, the veteran actor has worked with multiple directors and shared the screen with actors from various generations. He is one of the few leading men in the industry who had no background in the film the industry, and he is also one of the few Tamil actors who has only ever done work in Tamil films.

Following Vijayakanth's demise, tributes from all around India poured in, with many expressing it as a profound loss.Celebrities, fans and supporters are paying their tributes on social media.

Rest in power, Captain!