Several political leaders and celebrities of Tamil Nadu took to social media to share their condolences to the family and fans of Vijayakanth, the founder and chief of DMDK, who succumbed to COVID-19 after being hospitalized in Chennai on Thursday. In the realm of actors turned politicians, Vijayakanth, following the footsteps of MGR, stood out as one who attained a noteworthy level of success in the political arena. He started a party of his own, DMDK, and went on to become the Leader of Opposition in Tamil Nadu assembly for a period from 2011. 














Taking to X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, "Extremely saddened by the passing away of Thiru Vijayakanth Ji. A legend of the Tamil film world, his charismatic performances captured the hearts of millions. As a political leader, he was deeply committed to public service, leaving a lasting impact on Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. His passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill. He was a close friend and I fondly recall my interactions with him over the years. In this sad hour, my thoughts are with his family, fans and numerous followers. Om Shanti."


 





















AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi Palaniswami conveyed his condolences to Vijayakanth's family member. He said, "I am deeply saddened to learn that Mr. Vijayakanth, President of DMDK, former Leader of Opposition and dear brother passed away due to ill health. I convey my deepest condolences to the bereaved Mrs. Premalatha Vijayakanth, wife and DMDK General Secretary, her family and her party members. I pray that the soul of Mr. Vijayakanth, who has done many active works in public life and in the field of art, and is affectionately known as Captain by the people, rests in peace @iVijayakant."






 





 

Former Health Minister Vijayabaskar said, "DMDK President Mr. #விஜயகாந்த் The news of his passing away in hospital is deeply saddening. The hope that 'he will be treated for his illness and recover anyway' has also disappeared today. I offer my deepest condolences and condolences to his bereaved family, DMK workers and his fans. #RIP Captain #Vijayakanth 🙏🏿"










BJP leader Khushbu Sundar said, "We have lost a gem. A man with a golden heart. A man who truly deserved a lot more. Our beloved Captain, our Vijaykanth. Sir, hope you are finally at peace. Deepest condolences to his family, fans and devoted party workers. 
Om Shanthi. 🙏🙏🙏😭😭😭😭"


 






 


Tamil Nadu BJP chief Annamalai said that Vijayanth was a gentleman who quenched the hunger of poor workers. He said, "Deeply saddened and saddened to hear of the passing away of DMDK leader, respected Captain Vijayakanth. Born in south Tamil Nadu, he is proud to have built the South Indian film industry. A gentleman who quenched the hunger of the poor workers. A wonderful artist who is loved by Tamil people all over the world."