On Saturday, political leaders from various parties gathered in Chennai to pay tribute to the late actor and founder of the Desiya Murpoku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), Captain Vijayakanth, on his first death anniversary. Vijayakanth, an iconic figure in Tamil Nadu’s political and film landscapes, passed away on December 28, 2023, after battling COVID-19 and prolonged illness.
Remembering Captain Vijayakanth’s Legacy
Captain Vijayakanth, known for his larger-than-life persona both on and off the screen, was remembered fondly by leaders and fans alike. Having acted in more than 150 films, he became a household name through his action-packed roles and strong social messages. Beyond the silver screen, he left an indelible mark on Tamil Nadu’s politics with his charismatic leadership.
Key Contributions
- President of Nadigar Sangam: Vijayakanth played a pivotal role in supporting and uplifting cinema artists during his tenure as Nadigar Sangam president.
- Founder of DMDK: He established the DMDK in 2005, aiming to offer an alternative to the Dravidian parties dominating Tamil Nadu politics.
- Political Milestone: In the 2011 State Elections, DMDK contested 41 seats, winning 26 and becoming the principal opposition party in the Tamil Nadu Assembly—a significant achievement for a relatively young party.
Tributes from Political Leaders
BJP Leaders
- K Annamalai, Tamil Nadu BJP president, highlighted Vijayakanth’s transformative role in Tamil Nadu politics:“Captain Vijayakanth was the first to make us believe that a change can be brought in Tamil Nadu.”
- Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan, BJP leader and current Governor of Telangana, also paid her respects, recalling his contributions to politics and cinema.
O Panneerselvam (AIADMK Leader)
Former Chief Minister O Panneerselvam visited the memorial and honored Vijayakanth’s memory, acknowledging his pivotal role in Tamil Nadu’s political discourse.
Fans and Public Remembrance
The late leader’s admirers, including fans of his cinematic career, gathered to honor his memory. Many recalled his impactful films that championed justice and social causes, as well as his political journey that sought to empower the common man.
Captain Vijayakanth’s Impact on Tamil Nadu
Vijayakanth’s unique blend of cinematic fame and political ambition made him a formidable figure in Tamil Nadu. Through the DMDK, he sought to challenge the status quo and provide an alternative to traditional political powerhouses like the DMK and AIADMK.
Achievements in Politics
- DMDK’s success in the 2011 elections marked a turning point, as the party emerged as the principal opposition in the Tamil Nadu Assembly.
- Under his leadership, the DMDK built a strong cadre base and addressed pressing issues such as corruption, unemployment, and rural development.
Conclusion
Captain Vijayakanth’s contributions to Tamil Nadu’s cinema and politics continue to inspire millions. On his first death anniversary, political leaders and fans united to honor a man who brought energy, resilience, and change to the state. His legacy as a charismatic actor and leader remains etched in the hearts of the people.
