Chennai: Actor-politician and DMDK founder Vijayakanth passed away in Chennai today after a prolonged illness. The 71-year-old leader had been undergoing treatment for various health issues after he tested COVID positive. Vijayakanth, a prominent figure in Tamil Nadu politics, founded the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) party in 2005
"Captian Vijayakanth was on ventilatory support following his admission for pneumonia. Despite the best efforts of medical staff he passed away in the morning on 28th December 2023," the medical bulletin stated.
Vijayakanth was admitted to the hospital on Tuesday for a routine health check-up, according to the party. At that time, the DMDK stated that Vijayakanth was "healthy" and would be discharged after undergoing necessary tests. The party chief had previously been hospitalised on November 20 for respiratory illness treatment.
His public life was characterised by a successful film career, featuring in 154 movies, and later transitioning into politics.
As the founder of the DMDK, he served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly twice, representing the constituencies of Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam. Vijayakanth's political journey's high point was when he held the position of Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from 2011 to 2016.
Concerns about his health had led Vijayakanth to reduce his active involvement in politics in recent years