The film and political fraternities of Tamil Nadu are reeling in and grieving from the news of the unfortunate demise of actor and politician Vijayakanth. The actor, 71, passed away on Thursday, after being diagnosed with Covid-19 and pneumonia.
While actors, politicians, directors, and fans have been pouring in their condolences, the Tamil Nadu Film Exhibitors Association has taken a call to cancel all morning shows across theatres in Tamil Nadu, as a mark of respect to Vijayakanth.
A prolific actor, who was fondly called Captain, Vijayakanth was born on August 25, 1952, and predominantly worked in Tamil films. He also served as the Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from 2011 to 2016 and was the president of the political party Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam.
Known for his action-oriented and do-gooder roles, Vijayakanth made his debut with the 1979 film Inikuum Ilamai. However, he tasted success with films like Doorathu Idi Muzhakkam and Satham Oru Iruttuarai in 1980 and 1981 respectively. The actor reigned over the Tamil industry in the 80s and 90s, and gave some of the super hits of the era, namely, Amman Kovil Kizhakale, Oomai Vizhigal, Captain Prabhakaran, Chinna Gounder, among others. In the 2000s, though the actor reduced the number of films he acted in, Vijakanth gave some of the classics like Ramanaa, Engal Anna, which is spoken till date for his performances, and dialogues. The actor was last seen making a cameo appearance in the 2015 film Sagaptham.
He is survived by his wife Premalatha and two sons.
