Vijayakanth’s death was confirmed by officials of Miot Hospital, where he was admitted for
pneumonia and was treated with ventilator support.
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"Captain Vijaykanth was on ventilatory support following his admission for pneumonia. Despite
the best efforts of medical staff he passed away in the morning on 28th December 2023," the
hospital said in a release.

The yesteryear Tamil actor reported difficulty in breathing and diagnostic tests confirmed
coronavirus infection, his party earlier said in a statement.
Fondly referred to as "Captain" owing to his on-screen portrayal of military characters, he
established himself as a versatile actor with a successful career in cinema.
Vijayakanth ventured into politics by founding the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam
(DMDK) in 2005. The party was established with the aim of providing an alternative political

platform in Tamil Nadu, challenging the established Dravidian parties like the DMK and
AIADMK.
The DMDK made its electoral debut in the 2006 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections.
The party contested independently and managed to win a significant number of seats,
establishing itself as a force to be reckoned with in the state's political landscape.
In the 2011 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections, the DMDK allied with the AIADMK-
led coalition, and Vijayakanth became the Leader of the Opposition.
(With inputs from agencies)