The untimely demise of the legendary actor and revered politician, Captain Vijayakanth, has plunged the film fraternity and his legion of fans into deep mourning. Known for his iconic portrayals as a cop on screen, Vijayakanth, aged 71, breathed his last following a battle with pneumonia aggravated by a positive Covid-19 diagnosis. Initially admitted for a routine checkup, his deteriorating health led to ventilator support, ultimately culminating in his passing on Thursday.
The film industry and admirers alike were quick to express their grief and pay homage to the departed soul. Social media platforms became a canvas for celebrities to share their heartfelt tributes and condolences. From Kamal Haasan to Jr NTR, Trisha to Sonu Sood, and Vikram to many others, luminaries poured out their emotions, commemorating Vijayakanth’s indelible legacy.
Kamal Haasan penned an emotional eulogy in Tamil, celebrating Vijayakanth’s humanitarian spirit, innovative political ideas, and unwavering courage. Trisha, expressing her condolences, reminisced about his kindness, while Jr NTR hailed him as a powerhouse in both cinema and politics, praying for eternal peace for his departed soul.
Vikram conveyed his sorrow, expressing how Vijayakanth’s mentorship kickstarted his illustrious career. Sonu Sood, too, paid homage, reminiscing about how Vijayakanth’s support paved the way for his debut role, marking the beginning of his cinematic journey.
The impact of Vijayakanth’s contributions reverberated not only in the realm of cinema but also in the political landscape. Born Narayanan Vijayaraj Alagarswami in 1952 in Madurai, he carved a niche by exclusively featuring in Tamil films, earning the moniker ‘Puratchi Kalaignar’ (revolutionary artist). Renowned for his portrayals as the righteous protagonist, particularly as a police officer, his 1991 film ‘Captain Prabhakaran’ solidified his title as ‘Captain.’
Vijayakanth’s departure marks the end of an era, leaving behind a rich legacy that will be cherished by generations to come. His steadfast dedication to Tamil cinema, unwavering commitment to portraying characters of integrity, and his subsequent foray into politics have etched an everlasting imprint on the hearts of millions.
As a mark of respect, morning shows in cinemas across Tamil Nadu stand canceled, signifying the profound impact of his loss. While Vijayakanth may have bid adieu to this world, his memory and contributions will forever endure, resonating through the annals of Tamil cinema and political history.
Sources By Agencies
