PTC Web Desk: Actor and DMDK chief Vijayakanth, aged 71, passed away at a private hospital in Chennai on Thursday. He had been on ventilator support after testing positive for Covid-19.
The hospital issued a statement confirming his death: "Captain Vijayakanth was on ventilatory support due to pneumonia. Despite the dedicated efforts of the medical team, he passed away this morning on December 28, 2023."
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Initially admitted for a routine health check-up on Tuesday, actor and DMDK chief Vijayakanth's condition deteriorated rapidly. Earlier in November, he was hospitalised for respiratory issues.
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Known for his illustrious career in cinema, starring in 154 movies, Vijayakanth transitioned into politics, establishing the DMDK party. He served twice as a Member of Legislative Assembly, representing Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam. Notably, he held the position of Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from 2011 to 2016.
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In recent times, Vijayakanth's declining health prompted reduced involvement in active political affairs.