Renowned Actor Vijayakanth Passes Away At 71: Thousands Gather In Chennai To Bid A Tearful Final Farewell With Shaved Heads

Veteran actor and politician Vijayakanth, popularly known as Captain, passed away on Thursday at the age of 71 at a private hospital in Chennai. He had been admitted to MIOT Hospital and placed on ventilator support due to pneumonia, a condition that worsened despite medical efforts. The DMDK (Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam) chief had faced respiratory issues earlier in November, leading to a hospital stay before being discharged.

The news of his demise prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and fellow celebrities. Prominent figures such as Kamal Haasan, Jr NTR, Trisha, Sonu Sood, Vikram, Sriya Reddy, Mohanlal, and Chiranjeevi Konidela took to social media to pay heartfelt tributes. Kamal Haasan, in a Tamil note, acknowledged Vijayakanth's contributions to both cinema and politics, praising his fearless courage and compassion towards the less fortunate.

எனது அன்பிற்கினிய சகோதரர், தேசிய முற்போக்குத் திராவிட கழகத்தின் நிறுவனத் தலைவர், தமிழ் சினிமாவின் தனித்துவம் மிக்க நடிகர், கேப்டன் என்று அனைவராலும் அன்பு பாராட்டப்பட்ட விஜயகாந்த் அவர்களின் மறைவுச் செய்தி மிகுந்த துயரத்தைத் தருகிறது.

தன் ஒவ்வொரு செயலிலும் மனிதநேயத்தைக்… — Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) December 28, 2023

Jr NTR expressed sorrow over the loss, recognizing Vijayakanth as a powerhouse in both the realms of cinema and politics. Trisha and Sonu Sood also conveyed their condolences, with Sonu Sood acknowledging his debt to Captain Vijayakanth for his career.

“Kallazgar “ my first film ever , was a gift from the legend “ VIJAYKANTH” sir.. He came across this still of mine and in no time I was filming with him.. I owe my career to him .. Will miss you so much sir. RIP CAPTAIN ???? pic.twitter.com/Zb4kaipBtV — sonu sood (@SonuSood) December 28, 2023

As the news spread, thousands of fans and supporters flocked to the streets of Chennai to bid a tearful final farewell. Morning shows in theaters across Tamil Nadu were canceled as a mark of respect. Vijayakanth's mortal remains were initially placed at his residence, where Chief Minister MK Stalin and other politicians paid their last respects. Subsequently, his mortal remains were taken to the DMDK office. The final rites are scheduled to take place on Friday, December 29.

Also Read : Mazdooron Ka Hit Mazdooron ko Samarpit: PM Modi Resolves Hukumchand Mill Dues On Dec 25

The passing of Captain Vijayakanth marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy in both the entertainment industry and political arena.