Vijayakanth#Personal life

{{Infobox officeholder

|name = Vijayakanth

|image = Vijaykanth at the Sagaptham Audio Launch.jpg

|caption = Vijaykanth in 2015

|order = 16th

|office = Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly

|term_start = 27 May 2011

|term_end = 21 February 2016

|predecessor = J. Jayalalithaa

|successor = M. K. Stalin

|1blankname = Chief Minister

|1namedata = {{ubl|J. Jayalalithaa|O. Panneerselvam}}

|office1 = Member of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly

|term_start1 = 23 May 2011

|term_end1 = 21 May 2016

|predecessor1 = S. Sivaraj

|successor1 = Vasantham K. Karthikeyan

|constituency1 = Rishivandiyam

|term_start2 = 29 May 2006

|term_end2 = 14 May 2011

|predecessor2 = R. Govindasamy

|successor2 = V. Muthukumar

|constituency2 = Vriddhachalam

|office3 = President of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam

|term_start3 = 14 September 2005

|term_end3 = 28 December 2023

|predecessor3 = Position established

|successor3 = Position abolished

|office4 = General Secretary of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam

|term_start4 = 1 June 2014

|term_end4 = 14 December 2023

|predecessor4 = S. Ramu Vasanthan

|successor4 = Premalatha

|office5 = President of South Indian Artistes' Association

|term_start5 = 2000

|term_end5 = 2006

|predecessor5 = Radha Ravi

|successor5 = R. Sarathkumar

|birth_name = Vijayaraj Alagarswami

|birth_date = {{Birth date|1952|08|25|df=y}}

|birth_place = Madurai, Madras State, India

|death_date = {{Death date and age|2023|12|28|1952|08|25|df=y}}

|death_place = Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

|resting_place = Koyambedu, Chennai

|nationality = Indian

|party = Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam

|spouse = {{marriage|Premalatha Vijayakanth|1990|}}

|children = 2

|occupation = {{hlist|actor|director|film producer|philanthropist|politician}}

|awards = Padma Bhushan (2024) (posthumous)

Kalaimamani (2001){{cite news|title=Vijayakanth dies at 71. Tracing Captain's illustrious film and political career|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vijayakanth-dies-at-71-tracing-captains-illustrious-film-and-political-career-2481347-2023-12-28|access-date=30 December 2023|work=India Today|date=28 December 2023|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093847/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vijayakanth-dies-at-71-tracing-captains-illustrious-film-and-political-career-2481347-2023-12-28|url-status=live}}

|nickname = {{ubl|Captain|Black M.G.R.|Puratchi Kalaignar}}

}}

Vijayaraj Alagarswami (25 August 1952 – 28 December 2023), known by his stage name Vijayakanth, was an Indian actor, filmmaker, philanthropist and politician. He worked in Tamil cinema in a career spanning four decades. He ventured into politics in the later part of his career and founded his own party Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam.

Vijayakanth acted in over 150 films in his career. Some of his popular films include Vaidehi Kathirunthal (1984), Amman Kovil Kizhakale (1986), Poonthotta Kaavalkaaran (1988), Senthoora Poove (1988), Pulan Visaranai (1990), Chinna Gounder (1992), Honest Raj (1994), Thayagam (1996) and Vaanathaippola (2000). He was nicknamed "Captain" following his role in the film Captain Prabhakaran (1991). He was also credited as "Puratchi Kalaignar" (revolutionary artist) in the film titles as he often appeared in roles as a law enforcer, vigilante, or a village head. He won two Filmfare Awards South, three Tamil Nadu State Film Awards and was awarded the Kalaimamani title in 2001.

Vijayakanth served as the president of the Nadigar Sangam (actors association) from 2000 to 2006. He is credited with bringing the association out of debt and establishing a charitable trust that paid pension to low-income members of the film industry. He was likened to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. G. Ramachandran for his humanitarian work and for his role in supporting impoverished personnel from the Tamil film industry. He accepted deferred remuneration for certain films to help struggling film producers and also preached for food equality on film sets, demanding that all the crew members must be given the same quality meals that he was served.

After founding his own party in 2005, he served as a Member of Legislative Assembly for two terms from 2006 to 2016, representing the constituencies of Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam respectively. He led his party to win the second-most seats in the 2011 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election and served as the leader of the opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from 2011 to 2016. He remained as the leader of his party until his death in 2023. He was known for his "open and bold stance" during his political career. In January 2024, he was posthumously awarded India's third-highest civilian honour, the Padma Bhushan, by the Government of India.

Early and personal life

Vijayakanth was born as Vijayaraj Alagarswami in Madurai on 25 August 1952.{{cite news|title=Tongues wag as Elangovan greets Captain|url=http://newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/article208185.ece|access-date=10 July 2013|newspaper=The New Indian Express|date=26 August 2010|archive-date=7 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140307233821/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/article208185.ece|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|last1=Govardan|first1=D.|title=Vijayakant birthday: DMDK cadre celebrate it as poverty alleviation day|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/vijayakant-birthday-dmdk-cadre-celebrate-it-as-poverty-alleviation-day/articleshow/77734133.cms|access-date=25 May 2022|newspaper=The Times of India|date=25 August 2020|archive-date=3 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220603041918/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/vijayakant-birthday-dmdk-cadre-celebrate-it-as-poverty-alleviation-day/articleshow/77734133.cms|url-status=live }}{{cite web|title=From Kamal Haasan to Kushboo Sundar: South Indian celebs who entered politics|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/entertainment-news/tamil/article/from-kamal-haasan-to-kushboo-sundar-south-indian-celebs-who-entered-politics/734152|work=Times Now|date=18 March 2021|access-date=9 September 2024}} His parents were K. N. Alagarswami and Aandal.{{cite web|title=Vijayakanth dies at 71. Tracing Captain's illustrious film and political career|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vijayakanth-dies-at-71-tracing-captains-illustrious-film-and-political-career-2481347-2023-12-28|access-date=28 December 2023|work=India Today|date=28 December 2023|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093847/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vijayakanth-dies-at-71-tracing-captains-illustrious-film-and-political-career-2481347-2023-12-28|url-status=live}} Vijayakanth grew up idolising M. G. Ramachandran and displayed passion towards community and societal issues.{{Citation|title=How did Vijayakanth became Tamil cinema's angry man|date=30 December 2023|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K19-9285wXQ|access-date=31 December 2023|work=YouTube|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231122055/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K19-9285wXQ|url-status=live }} During his young age, his father was concerned about Vijayakanth as he showed less interest towards studies and was more interested in cinema.{{cite web|title=Captain Vijayakanth Story|date=17 March 2022|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lD6A-HTIE4k|access-date=31 December 2023|work=YouTube|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231122056/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lD6A-HTIE4k|url-status=live}} His father ran a rice mill at Keeraithurai where Vijayakanth went on to work and surprised him with his administrative skills.{{cite web|date=29 December 2023|title=Working in ricemill during the day and photoshoot during the night: How did Captain rise?|url=https://www.bbc.com/tamil/articles/cw0dex0eeg1o|access-date=31 December 2023|work=BBC News|language=ta|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231122054/https://www.bbc.com/tamil/articles/cw0dex0eeg1o|url-status=live}}

Vijayakanth married Premalatha on 31 January 1990 and had two sons. His son Shanmuga Pandian starred in the Tamil films Sagaptham (2015) and Madura Veeran (2018).{{cite web|date=27 April 2016|title=Anchor of Captain's ship: In conversation with Premalatha, first lady of TN's third front|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/anchor-captains-ship-conversation-premalatha-first-lady-tns-third-front-42250|access-date=19 May 2021|work=The News Minute|archive-date=19 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210519175001/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/anchor-captains-ship-conversation-premalatha-first-lady-tns-third-front-42250|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|date=25 August 2020|title=Captain Vijayakanth's birthday special selfie goes viral – Don't miss the happy family pic|url=https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/captain-vijayakanths-birthday-special-selfie-goes-viral-dont-miss-the-happy.html|access-date=19 May 2021|work=Behindwoods|archive-date=19 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210519175002/https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies-cinema-news-16/captain-vijayakanths-birthday-special-selfie-goes-viral-dont-miss-the-happy.html|url-status=live}}

Film career

= 1978 to 1989: Early career =

In 1978, Vijayakanth engaged in a photo shoot in Rasi Studios in Madurai with the aim of acting in films, which helped him garner attention.{{citation|title=Secrets of the photos that got Vijayakanth is chance|date=29 December 2023|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjxFeg_NT-0|access-date=31 December 2023|work=YouTube|language=ta|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231122054/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yjxFeg_NT-0|url-status=live}} He later gave credit to the chief photographer R. Asaithambi, indicating that the photographs eventually helped him earn a spot in the film industry.{{cite web|date=27 August 2012|title=His altruism is picture-perfect|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/his-altruism-is-picture-perfect/articleshow/15798043.cms|access-date=31 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231122054/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/madurai/his-altruism-is-picture-perfect/articleshow/15798043.cms|url-status=live }} Vijayakanth traveled to Chennai to pursue his passion in acting, even though he did not have any cinematic background. He was cast in a supporting role as Rajnikanth's younger brother in En Kelvikku Enna Bathil (1978) by the director P. Madhavan, for which he received an advance of {{INRconvert|100|year=1978}}.{{cite web|date=28 December 2023|title=When did Vijayakanth get the monicker captain?|url=https://tamil.news18.com/entertainment/why-actor-vijayakanth-called-captain-1288448.html|access-date=31 December 2023|work=News18|language=ta|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231122054/https://tamil.news18.com/entertainment/why-actor-vijayakanth-called-captain-1288448.html|url-status=live }} However, he was later replaced by Ceylon Manohar after the director was unimpressed with Vijayakanth's acting.{{cite web|date=29 December 2023|title=How did Vijayakanth became Tamil cinema's angry man?|url=https://www.bbc.com/tamil/articles/c51zl4v341vo|access-date=31 December 2023|work=BBC News|language=ta|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231122054/https://www.bbc.com/tamil/articles/c51zl4v341vo|url-status=live }}{{cite web|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakanth's cinema journey|url=https://www.hindutamil.in/news/cinema/tamil-cinema/1175061-actor-vijayakanth-cinema-journey.html|access-date=31 December 2023|work=The Hindu|language=ta|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231122055/https://www.hindutamil.in/news/cinema/tamil-cinema/1175061-actor-vijayakanth-cinema-journey.html|url-status=live }} He claimed to have lost several film opportunities during the early stages of his acting career largely due to his darker complexion.{{cite web|date=28 March 2009|title=Vijayakanth, a force to reckon with in TN politics|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/vijayakanth-a-force-to-reckon-with-in-tn-politics/articleshow/4326052.cms|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/vijayakanth-a-force-to-reckon-with-in-tn-politics/articleshow/4326052.cms|url-status=live }}{{cite web|date=28 December 2023|title=Almost Rajinikanth in films, almost MGR in politics, the life and fate of Captain Vijayakanth|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/captain-vijayakanth-dead-jarajinikanth-films-mgr-politics-life-fate-dmdk-9086271/|access-date=30 December 2023|work=The Indian Express|archive-date=29 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229100119/https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/captain-vijayakanth-dead-jarajinikanth-films-mgr-politics-life-fate-dmdk-9086271/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|date=29 December 2023|title=From dull to darling: How Vijayakant won hearts and heroines|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/from-dull-to-darling-how-vijayakant-won-hearts-and-heroines/articleshow/106376898.cms|access-date=31 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231111523/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/from-dull-to-darling-how-vijayakant-won-hearts-and-heroines/articleshow/106376898.cms|url-status=live }} In 1979, Vijayakanth made his first film appearance in M. A. Kaja's Inikkum Ilamai (1979), when he was first credited with his screen name "Vijayakanth".{{cite web|title=5 Facts On Vijayakanth, 'Captain' Who Wore Many Caps|url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/vijayakanth-captain-vijayakanth-dmdk-5-facts-on-vijayakanth-captain-who-wore-many-caps-4755962|access-date=28 December 2023|work=NDTV|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093842/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/vijayakanth-captain-vijayakanth-dmdk-5-facts-on-vijayakanth-captain-who-wore-many-caps-4755962|url-status=live }} The film was a critical and commercial failure.{{cite news|last=Naig|first=Udhav|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakanth death: A look at the film journey of Vijayakanth|newspaper=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/vijayakant-the-angry-young-man-of-kollywood-who-turned-into-a-mass-hero/article67682386.ece|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228050728/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/vijayakant-the-angry-young-man-of-kollywood-who-turned-into-a-mass-hero/article67682386.ece|url-status=live }} Though his subsequent films Agal Vilakku (1979), Neerottam (1980) and Samanthipoo (1980) also did not perform well at the box office, his film Doorathu Idi Muzhakkam was screened at the International Film Festival of India.{{cite web|last=K.|first=Janani|date=16 April 2018|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vijayakanth-40-years-in-tamil-cinema-sa-chandrasekar-1213179-2018-04-16|title=Vijayakanth's 40 years in cinema: What the last 4 decades have meant for Kollywood|work=India Today|access-date=30 April 2022|archive-date=28 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628015840/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/vijayakanth-40-years-in-tamil-cinema-sa-chandrasekar-1213179-2018-04-16|url-status=live}} The later film was lauded by viewers and became a turning point in his career.{{cite web|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakant's film journey: How Captain managed to hold his ground|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/tamil-nadu/tamil-naduvijayakant-film-journey-how-captain-managed-to-hold-his-ground|access-date=31 December 2023|work=The News Minute|archive-date=29 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229060310/https://www.thenewsminute.com/tamil-nadu/tamil-naduvijayakant-film-journey-how-captain-managed-to-hold-his-ground|url-status=live }}

File:With Vijaya kanth and Dir R Sundar Rajan and my First chief Raja Rajan sir.jpg

In the next few years, Vijayakanth often portrayed the character of an angry young man in films with revolutionary story lines such as Sivappu Malli (1981) and Jadhikkoru Needhi (1981). He became a popular commercial hero after his role in Sattam Oru Iruttarai (1981), directed by S. A. Chandrasekhar, with whom he collaborated in numerous films thereafter.{{cite web|last=Rajendran|first=Gopinath|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakanth: The man who redefined the 'act' in action|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/vijayakanth-the-man-who-redefined-the-act-in-action/article67682957.ece|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=29 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229225107/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/vijayakanth-the-man-who-redefined-the-act-in-action/article67682957.ece|url-status=live}} The film became a hit and was remade in several other Indian languages.{{cite web|title=Top 10 Vijayakanth movies|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/top-10-vijayakanth-movies/photostory/48666048.cms|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230032127/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/photo-features/top-10-vijayakanth-movies/photostory/48666048.cms|url-status=live}} He played the villain in Om Shakti (1982), which was his last antagonist part in a film.{{cite web|title=Tuesday Trivia! – 40 Years of Captain Vijayakanth|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/tuesday-trivia-40-years-of-captain-vijayakanth-tamil-news-210695|access-date=12 October 2020|work=IndiaGlitz|date=3 April 2018|archive-date=12 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200612200222/https://www.indiaglitz.com/tuesday-trivia-40-years-of-captain-vijayakanth-tamil-news-210695|url-status=live }} His subsequent commercial films included Dowry Kalyanam (1983), Nooravathu Naal (1984) and Vaidhegi Kaathirunthaal (1984), which became successes. He became lead actor to appear in the most films in 1984.{{cite news|title=Vijayakanth celebrates 40 years in cinema 8|url=https://www.sify.com/movies/vijayakanth-celebrates-40-years-in-cinema-imagegallery-8-kollywood-serkvBhiffcgh.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180418070428/http://www.sify.com/movies/vijayakanth-celebrates-40-years-in-cinema-imagegallery-8-kollywood-serkvBhiffcgh.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 April 2018|access-date=12 October 2020|work=Sify}} He acted in Annai Bhoomi (1985), the first 3D film made in the Tamil film industry, alongside Radha Ravi and Tiger Prabhakar.{{cite web|date=3 April 2018|title=Tuesday Trivia! – 40 Years of Captain Vijayakanth – News|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/captain-vijayakanth-40-years-in-kollywood-special-article---news-210695|access-date=30 December 2023|work=IndiaGlitz|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://www.indiaglitz.com/captain-vijayakanth-40-years-in-kollywood-special-article---news-210695|url-status=live }} He co-starred with Vishnuvardhan in Eetti (1985) and acted in the commercially successful romantic comedy Naane Raja Naane Mandhiri (1985).{{cite web|title=Jeevitha Rajasekhar: There are no words to describe Vijayakanth's goodness|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/interviews/2023/dec/28/jeevitha-rajasekhar-there-are-no-words-to-describe-vijayakanths-goodness-50777.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Cinema Express|date=28 December 2023|language=en|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/interviews/2023/dec/28/jeevitha-rajasekhar-there-are-no-words-to-describe-vijayakanths-goodness-50777.html|url-status=live }}{{cite web|title=Hunger for good cinema was Balu's script for success|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2016/jun/04/hunger-for-good-cinema-was-balus-script-for-success-936342.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=The New Indian Express|date=4 June 2016|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2016/jun/04/Hunger-for-good-cinema-was-Balus-script-for-success-936342.html|url-status=live }} He went on to act in Amman Kovil Kizhakale (1986), which earned him a Filmfare Award for Best Actor – Tamil; the film ran for 150 days in theatres.{{Cite web|date=25 August 2020|title=Happy Birthday Vijayakanth: 5 Popular Films of the Actor-turned-politician|url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/happy-birthday-vijayakanth-5-popular-films-of-the-actor-turned-politician-2817595.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=News18|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/happy-birthday-vijayakanth-5-popular-films-of-the-actor-turned-politician-2817595.html|url-status=live }} In 1986, he appeared in Manakanakku, the only film in which he worked alongside Kamal Haasan.{{cite news|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/kamal-haasan-remembers-vijayakanth-fan-of-his-righteous-anger-and-humility-2481858-2023-12-29|title=Kamal Haasan remembers Vijayakanth: Fan of his righteous anger and humility|date=29 December 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|work=India Today}}

Vijayakanth's next film was Oomai Vizhigal (1986), which became a cult classic and was lauded as a film way ahead of its time.{{cite web|last=Rajasekar|first=Gopinath|date=4 September 2019|title=Making Story of Cult Classic Oomai Vizhigal: Director Arvindraj|url=https://cinema.vikatan.com/kollywood/rare-interview-making-story-of-cult-classic-oomai-vizhigal-director-arvindraj|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Vikatan|language=ta|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://cinema.vikatan.com/kollywood/rare-interview-making-story-of-cult-classic-oomai-vizhigal-director-arvindraj|url-status=live }}{{cite web|title=Vijayakant: The star who redefined how junior artists were treated on sets|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2023/dec/29/vijayakant-the-star-who-redefined-how-junior-artists-were-treated-on-sets-2645874.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=The New Indian Express|date=29 December 2023|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2023/dec/29/vijayakant-the-star-who-redefined-how-junior-artists-were-treated-on-sets-2645874.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|date=25 August 2022|title=Vijayakanth's 'Oomai Vizhigal' is the only film which I bunked my class to watch in theatres: Vijay Milton- Exclusive!|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijayakanths-oomai-vizhigal-is-the-only-film-which-i-bunked-my-class-to-watch-in-theatres-vijay-milton-exclusive/articleshow/93769252.cms|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/vijayakanths-oomai-vizhigal-is-the-only-film-which-i-bunked-my-class-to-watch-in-theatres-vijay-milton-exclusive/articleshow/93769252.cms|url-status=live}} It portrayed him in a role of an aged cop and made him one of the popular actors of the time alongside Rajinikanth, and Kamal Haasan.{{cite web|title=Farewell Vijayakanth, self-made superstar who challenged Rajni, Kamal; worked for free when big makers didn't cast him|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-captain-vijayakanth-self-made-superstar-challenged-rajinikanth-kamal-haasan-big-filmmakers-did-not-cast-him-3072870|access-date=28 December 2023|work=Daily News and Analysis|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093857/https://www.dnaindia.com/entertainment/report-captain-vijayakanth-self-made-superstar-challenged-rajinikanth-kamal-haasan-big-filmmakers-did-not-cast-him-3072870|url-status=live }} In 1987, he co-starred with Sivaji Ganesan in Veerapandiyan, and acted in Ninaive Oru Sangeetham. He was given the epithet "Puratchi Kalaigner" by film's producer Kalaipuli S. Thanu after his performance in Cooliekkaran.{{cite web|title=I titled Vijayakanth as Puratchi Kalignar - Producer S Dhanu {{!}}40 years of Vijayakanth|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sw-N68UH_L4|access-date=31 December 2023|language=ta|work=YouTube|archive-date=6 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230606163921/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sw-N68UH_L4|url-status=live }} On 21 October 1987, Vijayakanth had two theatrical releases as both Uzhavan Magan and Sattam Oru Vilayaattu, both of which were commercially successful.{{cite web|date=8 November 2021|title=Friday Fury - Captain Vijayakanth's double blockbuster release on single day - Top 10 Cinema|url=https://top10cinema.com//article/45250/friday-fury-captain-vijayakanths-double-blockbuster-release-on-single-day|access-date=31 December 2023|url-status=usurped|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211108002234/https://top10cinema.com//article/45250/friday-fury-captain-vijayakanths-double-blockbuster-release-on-single-day|archive-date=8 November 2021}} Uzhavan Magan also marked the first collaboration between Vijayakanth and his longtime friend Ibrahim Rowther, who produced the film.{{cite web|date=22 July 2015|title=Tamil film producer Ibrahim Rowther dead|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/regional/tamil-film-producer-ibrahim-rowther-dead/|access-date=31 December 2023|work=The Indian Express|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231111523/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/regional/tamil-film-producer-ibrahim-rowther-dead/|url-status=live}} In 1988, he worked in films such as Therkathi Kallan, Nallavan and Poonthotta Kaavalkaaran.{{cite web|date=8 November 2022|title=Vijayakanth's Photo With Ex-Cricketer Brian Lara is Viral Again|url=https://www.news18.com/news/movies/vijayakanths-photo-with-ex-cricketer-brian-lara-is-viral-again-6337249.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=News18|language=en|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://www.news18.com/news/movies/vijayakanths-photo-with-ex-cricketer-brian-lara-is-viral-again-6337249.html|url-status=live }} He won a Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Actor for his performance in Senthoora Poove.{{cite web|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/vijayakanth-tamil-nadu-loses-its-captain-1952-2023-9085790/|title=Vijayakanth (1952–2023): Tamil Nadu loses its Captain|date=28 December 2023|work=The Indian Express|access-date=28 December 2023|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093900/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/vijayakanth-tamil-nadu-loses-its-captain-1952-2023-9085790/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|date=26 August 2023|title=As Actor Vijayakanth Turns 71, Here Are His 5 Superhit Films You Must Watch|url=https://www.news18.com/movies/as-actor-vijayakanth-turns-71-here-are-his-5-superhit-films-you-must-watch-8552130.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=News18|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://www.news18.com/movies/as-actor-vijayakanth-turns-71-here-are-his-5-superhit-films-you-must-watch-8552130.html|url-status=live}} In 1989, he starred in the commercially successful films Paattukku Oru Thalaivan, and Ponmana Selvan.{{cite web|title=Vijayakanth demise: He was the man of the masses, righteous and straightforward, says P Vasu|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2023/dec/28/vijayakanth-demise-he-was-the-man-of-the-masses-righteous-andstraightforward-says-p-vasu-50769.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Cinema Express|date=28 December 2023|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040319/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2023/dec/28/vijayakanth-demise-he-was-the-man-of-the-masses-righteous-andstraightforward-says-p-vasu-50769.html|url-status=live}} This was followed by the crime thriller Rajanadai and devotional film Meenakshi Thiruvilayadal.{{cite web|date=4 June 2020|title=Ammans who blessed Kollywood before Nayan's Mookuthi Amman! – Tamil News|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/tamil-cinema-amman-heroines-before-nayanthara-tamil-news-262012|access-date=30 December 2023|work=IndiaGlitz|archive-date=8 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200808125803/https://www.indiaglitz.com/tamil-cinema-amman-heroines-before-nayanthara-tamil-news-262012|url-status=live }}

= 1990 to 1999: Action roles =

File:Kalaignar.jpg M. Karunanidhi and director K. Balachandar in a function in 1997.]]

In the 1990s, Vijayakanth established himself as an action icon with a consistent box-office appeal. He was best known for low-budget films that often featured gravity-defying stunts in which he would single-handedly dispatch his enemies.{{cite web|title=If these videos are anything to go by, Vijayakanth is already the TN CM|url=https://scroll.in/reel/805567/if-these-videos-are-anything-to-go-by-vijayakanth-is-already-the-tn-cm|access-date=13 March 2021|work=Scroll.in|date=23 March 2016|archive-date=4 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210404051018/https://scroll.in/reel/805567/if-these-videos-are-anything-to-go-by-vijayakanth-is-already-the-tn-cm|url-status=live}} Rowther produced many of his films and played an instrumental role in Vijayakanth's rise as an actor in the early 1990s. He also assisted Vijayakanth in choosing the film scripts.{{cite web|title=The Man Who Named Vijayakanth 'Captain', Ibrahim Rowther, Breathes His Last|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2015/jul/22/the-man-who-named-vijayakanth-captain-ibrahim-rowther-breathes-his-last-789843.html|access-date=31 December 2023|work=The New Indian Express|date=22 July 2015|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231111524/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2015/jul/22/The-Man-Who-Named-Vijayakanth-Captain-Ibrahim-Rowther-Breathes-His-Last-789843.html|url-status=live}} Rowther and Vijayakanth combined for many of the films including Pulan Visaranai (1990), Captain Prabhakaran (1991), Bharathan (1992), Rajadurai (1993), Sakkarai Devan (1993), En Aasai Machan (1994), Gandhi Pirantha Mann (1995), Karuppu Nila (1995), Ulavuthurai (1998), Dharma (1998) and Simmasanam (2000).{{cite web|date=23 July 2015|title=List of Films Produced By Ibrahim Rowther with Vijayakanth as Hero - Tamil News|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/list-of-films-produced-by-ibrahim-rowther-with-vijayakanth-as-hero-tamil-news-138254|access-date=31 December 2023|work=IndiaGlitz|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231111523/https://www.indiaglitz.com/list-of-films-produced-by-ibrahim-rowther-with-vijayakanth-as-hero-tamil-news-138254|url-status=live}} Pulan Visaranai, which was directed by R. K. Selvamani and featured R. Sarathkumar as the antagonist, became one of the most popular crime thrillers of the time.{{Cite web|date=28 December 2023|title=Remembering Vijayakanth: Tamil cinema bids goodbye to its 'Captain'|url=https://indianexpress.com/photos/entertainment-gallery/remembering-vijayakanth-tamil-cinema-bids-goodbye-to-its-captain-9085833/|access-date=28 December 2023|work=The Indian Express|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093843/https://indianexpress.com/photos/entertainment-gallery/remembering-vijayakanth-tamil-cinema-bids-goodbye-to-its-captain-9085833/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=30 Years of Pulan Visaranai: A nostalgic look-back at one of the best crime thrillers ever made in Tamil|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/photos/slideshows/2020/jan/18/30-years-of-pulan-visaranai-a-nostalgic-look-back-at-one-of-the-best-crime-thrillers-ever-made-in-t-859.html|access-date=12 October 2020|work=Cinema Express|date=18 January 2020|archive-date=12 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200612200221/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/photos/slideshows/2020/jan/18/30-years-of-pulan-visaranai-a-nostalgic-look-back-at-one-of-the-best-crime-thrillers-ever-made-in-t-859.html|url-status=live }}{{cite web|title=Revisiting Pulan Visaranai: A look-back at one of the best crime thrillers ever made in Tamil|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/photos/slideshows/2020/jan/18/revisiting-pulan-visaranai-a-look-back-atone-of-the-best-crime-thrillers-ever-made-in-tamil-859.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Cinema Express|date=18 January 2020|language=en|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/photos/slideshows/2020/jan/18/revisiting-pulan-visaranai-a-look-back-atone-of-the-best-crime-thrillers-ever-made-in-tamil-859.html|url-status=live }} He later starred as an honest cop in the hit flick Sathriyan, produced by Mani Ratnam. After the success of Pulan Visaranai, he collaborated with Selvamani for Captain Prabhakaran (1991), which was Vijayakanth's 100th film.{{cite web|url=https://www.ndtv.com/people/who-is-vijayakanth-or-captain-553197|title=Who is Vijayakanth or Captain?|work=NDTV|access-date=3 December 2020|archive-date=25 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190925032015/https://www.ndtv.com/people/who-is-vijayakanth-or-captain-553197|url-status=live}} The film became one of the highest grossing films in 1991 and ran for over 500 days in theaters.{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/tamil-film-industry-100th-film-jinx-grips-the-mighty-sans-captain/article8595803.ece|title=100th film jinx grips the mighty sans 'Captain'|first=N.|last=Kesavan|date=14 May 2016|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=28 June 2018|archive-date=28 June 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180628234546/https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/tamil-film-industry-100th-film-jinx-grips-the-mighty-sans-captain/article8595803.ece|url-status=live}} He got the sobriquet "captain" after the success of the film.{{cite web|url=https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/a-silver-toast-to-the-golden-year-of-tamil-cinema/297311|title=A Silver Toast to the Golden Year Of Tamil Cinema|work=Outlook|date=4 February 2022|access-date=28 April 2019|archive-date=24 September 2020|archive-url=https://archive.today/20200924180647/https://www.outlookindia.com/website/story/a-silver-toast-to-the-golden-year-of-tamil-cinema/297311|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Ramanujam|first=Srinivasa|date=28 December 2023|title=Why is Vijayakant called 'Captain'? A throwback to the actor's 100th film|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/why-is-vijayakant-called-captain-a-throwback-to-the-actors-100th-film/article67682565.ece|access-date=28 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093850/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/why-is-vijayakanth-called-captain-a-throwback-to-the-actors-100th-film/article67682565.ece|url-status=live }}

Vijayakanth acted in the movies Maanagara Kaaval and Moondrezhuthil En Moochirukkum in the same year. In 1992, he appeared in the role of a village chief in the film Chinna Gounder, which turned out to be an experimental film and a cult classic in the later years.{{cite web|title=Vijayakanth was director's actor: RV Udayakumar|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2023/dec/28/vijayakanth-was-directors-actorrv-udayakumar-50776.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Cinema Express|date=28 December 2023|language=en|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230032129/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2023/dec/28/vijayakanth-was-directors-actorrv-udayakumar-50776.html|url-status=live }}{{cite web|title=Under the banyan tree: 'Chinna Gounder' director RV Udayakumar on the Vijayakanth film|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2019/sep/11/under-the-banyan-tree-chinna-gounder-director-rv-udayakumar-on-the-vijayakanth-film-2031889.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=The New Indian Express|date=12 September 2019|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230032127/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2019/sep/11/under-the-banyan-tree-chinna-gounder-director-rv-udayakumar-on-the-vijayakanth-film-2031889.html|url-status=live}} The song "Antha Vaanatha Pola" from the movie became popular, and eventually became a popular meme in the later years.{{cite web|last=Kolappan|first=B.|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakanth's films featured some of the finest songs, from 'Antha Vanatha Pola' to 'Rasathi Unna Kanatha Nenju'|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/vijayakanth-films-featured-some-of-the-finest-songs-from-antha-vanatha-pola-to-rasathi-unna-kanatha-nenju/article67682504.ece|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230032127/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/vijayakanth-films-featured-some-of-the-finest-songs-from-antha-vanatha-pola-to-rasathi-unna-kanatha-nenju/article67682504.ece|url-status=live }} He later appeared in films such as Koyil Kaalai (1993), Ezhai Jaathi (1993), Sakkarai Devan (1993), Rajadurai (1993) and Enga Muthalali (1993). He co-starred with Vijay in Senthoorapandi (1993), where he plays the role of elder brother.{{cite web|url=https://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/10-lesser-known-facts-about-vijayakanth/the-only-actor-after-mgr-and-shivaji.html|title=10 Lesser known facts about Vijayakanth|work=Behindwoods|date=12 May 2016|access-date=18 December 2021|archive-date=1 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220601163040/https://m.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/10-lesser-known-facts-about-vijayakanth/the-only-actor-after-mgr-and-shivaji.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last=Chandar|first=Bhuvanesh|date=28 December 2023|title=Adios, Captain Vijayakanth: The quintessential cop and crusader on-screen|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/adios-captain-vijayakanth-the-quintessential-cop-and-crusader-on-screen/article67682992.ece|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230012220/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/adios-captain-vijayakanth-the-quintessential-cop-and-crusader-on-screen/article67682992.ece|url-status=live}} He played an extended cameo role in this film for which he did not take any remuneration.{{cite web|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/stories/news/2018/apr/16/sac-recalls-vijayakanths-help-for-vijay-5555.html|title=SAC recalls Vijayakanth's help for Vijay|date=16 April 2018|work=Cinema Express|access-date=8 April 2022|archive-date=5 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105081513/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/stories/news/2018/apr/16/sac-recalls-vijayakanths-help-for-vijay-5555.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Vijayakanth used to share a special bond with Vijay, worked without remuneration in a movie|url=http://www.indiaherald.com/Breaking/Read/994662984/Vijayakanth-used-to-share-a-special-bond-with-Vijay-worked-without-remuneration-in-a-movie-|access-date=30 December 2023|work=India Herald|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040339/https://www.indiaherald.com/Breaking/Read/994662984/Vijayakanth-used-to-share-a-special-bond-with-Vijay-worked-without-remuneration-in-a-movie-|url-status=live}} In 1994, he appeared in Sethupathi IPS, Honest Raj, Pathavi Pramanam, En Aasai Machan and Periya Marudhu.{{cite web|last=Ramanujam|first=Srinivasa|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakant's riskiest stunt scene in 'Sethupathi IPS' featured 70 cars|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/vijayakants-riskiest-stunt-scene-in-sethupathi-ips-featured-70-cars/article67682748.ece|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230033633/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/vijayakants-riskiest-stunt-scene-in-sethupathi-ips-featured-70-cars/article67682748.ece|url-status=live }} His later films included Karuppu Nila (1995), Thirumoorthy (1995) and Gandhi Pirantha Mann (1995). He won a Tamil Nadu State Film Award Special Prize for his performance in the action film Thayagam (1996). This was followed by Tamizh Selvan and Alexander in 1996.{{cite news|title=Film fraternity condoles Vijayakanth's demise|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2023/dec/28/film-fraternity-condolesvijayakanths-demise-50761.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Cinema Express|date=28 December 2023|language=en|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230041533/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/news/2023/dec/28/film-fraternity-condolesvijayakanths-demise-50761.html|url-status=live }} In 1997, he appeared in the film Dharma Chakkaram which was directed by K. S. Ravikumar.{{citation|title=Sollaikulla Kaatukulla Video Song {{!}} Dharma Chakkaram Tamil Movie Songs {{!}} Vijayakanth {{!}} Rambha|date=11 November 2021|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9D22iVB1Bg|access-date=30 December 2023|work=YouTube|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230041533/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9D22iVB1Bg|url-status=live }} He acted in his 125th film Ulavuthurai in 1998, followed by Dharma (1998) and Veeram Vilanja Mannu in the same year. In 1999, he acted in Kallazhagar, and Periyanna, in which he acted alongside Suriya.{{cite web|title=Rediff On The NeT, Movies: Gossip from the southern film industry|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/1999/jan/25ss.htm|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Rediff|archive-date=9 August 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809181606/https://www.rediff.com/movies/1999/jan/25ss.htm|url-status=live }} He later starred in R. B. Choudary's production, Kannupada Poguthaiya.{{cite web|date=16 August 2013|title=Shotcuts: Platinum celebration|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-columns/shotcuts-platinum-celebration/article5028988.ece|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230032127/https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/cinema-columns/shotcuts-platinum-celebration/article5028988.ece|url-status=live }}

= 2000 to 2009: Experienced roles =

In 2000, Vijayakanth played a dual role in Vaanathai Pola, a rural family drama directed by Vikraman, which won two awards; a Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Film of the year and National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.{{cite news|date=24 October 2004|title=Tamil Nadu announces film awards for three years|url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/10733.html|work=Indiaglitz|access-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041024060415/http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/10733.html|archive-date=24 October 2004 }} His acting in Vallarasu received widespread attention, in which he played a cop who took on a terrorist group. He played three different roles in his next movie Simmasanam.{{cite web|date=28 February 2017|title=Simmasanam – Vijayakanth {{!}} When our Kollywood Superstars played triple roles in films!|url=https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/when-our-kollywood-superstars-played-triple-roles-in-films/simmasanam-vijayakanth.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Behindwoods|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040319/https://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movies/slideshow/when-our-kollywood-superstars-played-triple-roles-in-films/simmasanam-vijayakanth.html|url-status=live }} He acted in action films Vaanchinathan (2001) directed by Shaji Kailas and Narasimha (2001). Though the later failed at the box office, Vijayakanth was praised for his action, and the film became a unique component in Tamil pop culture.{{Citation|title=Vijayakanth destroying military tatics [sic] {{!}} Tamil {{!}} Narasimha {{!}} Vijayakanth {{!}} Sun NXT|date=15 October 2022|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9eBvwL21Yk|access-date=30 December 2023|work=YouTube|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230051732/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9eBvwL21Yk|url-status=live }}{{cite web|title=20 Years of Narasimha: Four interesting facts about the film|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/20-years-of-narasimha-four-interesting-facts-about-the-film/photostory/84467472.cms|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230051732/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/20-years-of-narasimha-four-interesting-facts-about-the-film/photostory/84467472.cms|url-status=live}} Narasimha was considered as a spiritual sequel to Vallarasu. He made a cameo appearance in Viswanathan Ramamoorthy and appeared in a dual role in the village drama Thavasi (2001).{{cite web|date=5 June 2003|title=A feast of films|url=http://hinduonnet.com/thehindu/fr/2001/11/09/stories/2001110901220800.htm|access-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030605093230/http://hinduonnet.com/thehindu/fr/2001/11/09/stories/2001110901220800.htm|archive-date=5 June 2003|work=The Hindu}}{{cite web|title=Sense of a scene: Vijayakanth's Chinna Gounder was not meant to romanticise caste|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/stories/columns/2019/sep/10/sense-of-a-scene-vijayakanths-chinna-gounder-was-not-meant-to-romanticise-caste-14203.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Cinema Express|date=10 September 2019|archive-date=9 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210309152638/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/stories/columns/2019/sep/10/sense-of-a-scene-vijayakanths-chinna-gounder-was-not-meant-to-romanticise-caste-14203.html|url-status=live}} His next film Raajjiyam (2002) failed to deliver in the box office and it turned out to be a box office bomb.{{cite web|title=Gemini strikes gold at the Tamil marquee|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/2002/apr/22tamil.htm|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Rediff|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230132139/https://www.rediff.com/movies/2002/apr/22tamil.htm|url-status=live}} In 2002, he acted in guest appearance in Devan, co-starring with Arun Pandian.{{cite web|date=29 September 2003|title=An action filled suspense drama|url=http://hindu.com/thehindu/fr/2001/11/16/stories/2001111600660200.htm|access-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030929101856/http://hindu.com/thehindu/fr/2001/11/16/stories/2001111600660200.htm|archive-date=29 September 2003|work=The Hindu}}

File:Vijayakanth at a function.jpg

Vijayakanth collaborated with director AR Murugadoss in Ramanaa, in which he underplayed an action hero and anti-corruption crusader.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/captain-vijayakanth-64th-birthday-special-article-malayalam-news-165866|title=What makes Vijayakanth so important for Tamil Nadu and its people?|work=Indiaglitz|date=25 August 2016|access-date=17 December 2021|archive-date=17 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211217212415/https://www.indiaglitz.com/captain-vijayakanth-64th-birthday-special-article-malayalam-news-165866|url-status=live}} The film won a Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Film of the year and the film became commercially successful.{{cite news|title=20 years of 'Ramanaa': Five things that make Vijayakanth's film memorable even today|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/20-years-of-ramanaa-five-things-that-make-vijayakanths-film-memorable-even-today/photostory/95279430.cms|work=The Times of India|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230040318/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/20-years-of-ramanaa-five-things-that-make-vijayakanths-film-memorable-even-today/photostory/95279430.cms|url-status=live }} In 2003, he had two releases, Chokka Thangam, a family drama and Thennavan, a political film. In 2004, he appeared in a comedy-drama, Engal Anna which was a commercial success.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/engal-anna/article28575474.ece|title=Engal Anna|date=23 January 2004|work=The Hindu|access-date=20 September 2019|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011224440/https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-fridayreview/engal-anna/article28575474.ece|url-status=live}} However, his next films Gajendra and Neranja Manasu, which were released in the same year, received negative reviews.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/-review-tamil-movie-7100|title=Gajendra review. Gajendra Tamil movie review, story, rating|work=IndiaGlitz|access-date=8 April 2022|archive-date=25 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220525081650/https://www.indiaglitz.com/-review-tamil-movie-7100|url-status=live}} Later, he did a special appearance in Suriya's film Maayavi (2005).{{cite web|date=18 February 2005|title=Vijayakanth as Vijayakanth – Bollywood News|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/vijayakanth-as-vijayakanth-hindi-news-13276|access-date=30 December 2023|work=IndiaGlitz|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230132138/https://www.indiaglitz.com/vijayakanth-as-vijayakanth-hindi-news-13276|url-status=live }} In 2006, he acted in three action films, Sudesi, Perarasu and Dharmapuri, all of which failed to deliver at the box office and received negative reviews from critics.{{cite web|title=O Captain! My Captain! – Remembering the glorious career of Vijayakanth|url=https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/features/2023/dec/29/o-captain-my-captain-remembering-the-glorious-career-of-vijayakanth-50779.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Cinema Express|date=29 December 2023|language=en|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230032127/https://www.cinemaexpress.com/tamil/features/2023/dec/29/o-captain-my-captain-remembering-the-glorious-career-of-vijayakanth-50779.html|url-status=live}} The following year, he starred in Sabari (2007) and his 150th film was Arasangam (2008), which was about a police officer who discovers and unravels the mystery behind a terrorist plot.{{cite web|last=Srinivasan|first=Pavithra|title=Arasangam, a pleasant surprise|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/ssa/20080509.htm|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Rediff|archive-date=12 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712215829/https://www.rediff.com/movies/review/ssa/20080509.htm|url-status=live }} He acted in the drama Mariyadhai (2009), in his second colloboration with director Vikraman, followed by the action film Engal Aasan (2009), in which he co-starred with Vikranth.{{cite news|last1=Kumar|first1=B. Aravind|title=Vijayakanth does a double role ahead of polls|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/vijayakanth-does-a-double-role-ahead-of-polls/articleshow/4242570.cms|access-date=6 April 2021|newspaper=The Times of India|date=9 March 2009|language=en|archive-date=2 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220602011354/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/vijayakanth-does-a-double-role-ahead-of-polls/articleshow/4242570.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite web|last1=Darshan|first1=Navein|title=Being Vijay anna's shadow was my biggest disadvantage: Actor Vikranth|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2019/jun/12/being-vijay-annas-shadow-was-my-biggest-disadvantage-1989146.html|access-date=6 April 2021|work=The New Indian Express|date=12 June 2019|archive-date=24 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524063541/https://www.newindianexpress.com/entertainment/tamil/2019/jun/12/being-vijay-annas-shadow-was-my-biggest-disadvantage-1989146.html|url-status=live }}

= 2010 to 2015: Later projects =

In 2010, Vijayakanth acted and directed the film, Virudhagiri, a remake of the French film Taken.{{cite web|date=18 December 2010|title=Image syndrome|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/Image-syndrome/article15598069.ece|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230051732/https://www.thehindu.com/features/cinema/Image-syndrome/article15598069.ece|url-status=live }}{{cite web|last=Srinivasan|first=Pavithra|title=Captain's outing with Virudhagiri|url=https://www.rediff.com/movies/report/south-review-virudhagiri/20101213.htm|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Rediff|language=en|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230051732/https://www.rediff.com/movies/report/south-review-virudhagiri/20101213.htm|url-status=live}} After a hiatus of five years, he made a cameo appearance in his son Shanmuga Pandian's first film Sagaptham in 2015.{{cite news|last=Menon|first=Vishal|date=1 February 2018|title=I want to become like my dad, says Vijayakanth's son Shanmuga Pandian|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/shanmuga-pandian-on-madura-veeran/article22621964.ece|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230041533/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/shanmuga-pandian-on-madura-veeran/article22621964.ece|url-status=live}} In November 2015, he started acting in Arun Ponnambalam's Thamizhan Endru Sol, alongside his son. The film was later suspended due to Vijayakanth's political commitments and his deteriorating health.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/vijayakanth-shanmuga-pandian-tamizhan-endru-sol-rumored-to-be-dropped-tamil-news-154910|title=Shocking: Vijayakanth's Tamizhan Endru Sol Dropped??|date=17 March 2016|work=IndiaGlitz|access-date=1 May 2022|archive-date=26 February 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190226234146/https://www.indiaglitz.com/vijayakanth-shanmuga-pandian-tamizhan-endru-sol-rumored-to-be-dropped-tamil-news-154910|url-status=live}} In 2022, director Vijay Milton attempted to rope in Vijayakanth in a short role for his film Mazhai Pidikatha Manithan alongside Vijay Antony.{{cite web|date=18 June 2022|title=Has Vijayakanth completed shooting for 'Mazhai Pidikkatha Manithan'? Vijay Milton answers in an exclusive chat|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/has-vijayakanth-completed-shooting-for-mazhai-pidikkatha-manithan-vijay-milton-answers-in-an-exclusive-chat/articleshow/92302580.cms|access-date=31 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231111523/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/has-vijayakanth-completed-shooting-for-mazhai-pidikkatha-manithan-vijay-milton-answers-in-an-exclusive-chat/articleshow/92302580.cms|url-status=live}} The film later went ahead without Vijayakanth due to his health issues.{{cite web|date=29 December 2023|title=Vijay Milton reveals the powerful character that he had for Vijayakanth in 'Mazhai Pidikkatha Manithan'|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/exclusive-vijay-milton-reveals-the-powerful-character-that-he-had-for-vijayakanth-in-mazhai-pidikkatha-manithan/articleshow/106373302.cms|access-date=31 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231111524/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/exclusive-vijay-milton-reveals-the-powerful-character-that-he-had-for-vijayakanth-in-mazhai-pidikkatha-manithan/articleshow/106373302.cms|url-status=live}} In a film career spanning more than 30 years, he acted in 154 movies.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/vijayakanth-completes-40-years-in-cinema-stars-heap-praise-on-the-legend--tamil-news-211993|title=Vijayakanth completes 40 years in cinema: Stars heap praise on the legend|date=20 April 2018|access-date=26 June 2022|archive-date=26 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220626193921/https://www.indiaglitz.com/vijayakanth-completes-40-years-in-cinema-stars-heap-praise-on-the-legend--tamil-news-211993|url-status=live|work=Indiaglitz}}

Political career

On 14 September 2005, Vijayakanth announced the formation of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), a regional political party at Madurai.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/actor-vijayakanth-launches-own-party/articleshow/1231550.cms|title=Actor Vijayakanth launches his own party|newspaper=The Times of India|date=15 September 2005|access-date=1 June 2024}}{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-when-entertainers-turned-politicians/20120214.htm|title=When Entertainers Turned To Politics|work=Rediff|date=14 February 2012|access-date=5 April 2013|archive-date=18 May 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130518090520/http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-when-entertainers-turned-politicians/20120214.htm|url-status=live}} His party contested in all the 234 seats in{{cite web|title=Statistical report on Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2006|url=http://eci.nic.in/eci_main/StatisticalReports/SE_2006/StatReport_TN_2006.pdf|page=325|year=2006|publisher=Election Commission of India|access-date=10 November 2013|archive-date=7 October 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101007200819/http://eci.nic.in/eci_main/StatisticalReports/SE_2006/StatReport_TN_2006.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=In the Rise and Fall of Vijayakanth in Tamil Politics, Rajinikanth Has a Lesson|url=https://thewire.in/politics/rajinikanth-tamil-nadu-politics-vijayakanth-dmdk|access-date=28 December 2023|work=The Wire|archive-date=12 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210112220739/https://thewire.in/politics/rajinikanth-tamil-nadu-politics-vijayakanth-dmdk|url-status=live}} As per the results, the party secured higher number of votes than the winning margins of candidates in about 25 constituencies.{{cite news|author=Iyengar, Pushpa|date=19 May 2008|url=http://www.outlookindia.com/magazine/story/dark-horse-off-screen/237479|title=Dark Horse, Off Screen|work=Outlook|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220051919/http://www.outlookindia.com/magazine/story/dark-horse-off-screen/237479|archive-date=20 December 2016}} The party contested without an alliance in the 2009 Indian general elections and secured about 10.28% of the votes in Tamil Nadu.{{cite news|date=22 March 2009|title=Captain Vijayakanth kicks off campaign trail|newspaper=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/captain-vijayakanth-kicks-off-campaign-trail/articleshow/4301622.cms|access-date=28 December 2023|issn=0013-0389|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093904/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/captain-vijayakanth-kicks-off-campaign-trail/articleshow/4301622.cms|url-status=live }}{{cite report|url=https://old.eci.gov.in/files/file/2880-performance-of-state-party/|title=Performance of state parties|publisher=Election Commission of India|access-date=10 November 2023}} In the 2011 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election, the party contested as a part of the AIADMK-led alliance.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2011/02/25/stories/2011022562130100.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110227235337/http://www.hindu.com/2011/02/25/stories/2011022562130100.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=27 February 2011|title=Front Page : Vijayakant's party to join hands with AIADMK to oust DMK|access-date=25 January 2014|newspaper=The Hindu|date=25 February 2011}}{{cite news|url=http://dinamani.com/edition/Story.aspx?SectionName=Tamilnadu&artid=361742&SectionID=129&MainSectionID=129&SEO=&Title=|title=ADMK and DMDK should form an alliance: Cho|newspaper=Dinamani|language=ta|access-date=25 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710130630/http://dinamani.com/edition/Story.aspx?SectionName=Tamilnadu&artid=361742&SectionID=129&MainSectionID=129&SEO=&Title=|archive-date=10 July 2011|url-status=dead}} Vijayakanth led the party's campaign for the elections despite opposition from other party leaders such as S. Ramadoss, the founder of Pattali Makkal Katchi, who expressed his dissatisfaction with people from the film industry entering politics.{{cite news|url=http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=162632|title=Everybody should oppose DMK: Resolution in DMDK conference|newspaper=Dinamalar|language=ta|access-date=25 January 2014|date=10 January 2011|archive-date=25 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140225204808/http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=162632|url-status=dead}}{{cite news|url=http://dinamani.com/edition/Story.aspx?SectionName=Tamilnadu&artid=365322&SectionID=129&MainSectionID=129&SEO=&Title=|title=People should not give change to people from Cinema: Ramadoss|newspaper=Dinamani|language=ta|access-date=25 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710132407/http://dinamani.com/edition/Story.aspx?SectionName=Tamilnadu&artid=365322&SectionID=129&MainSectionID=129&SEO=&Title=|archive-date=10 July 2011|url-status=dead}} During the runup to the elections, Vijayakanth developed a feud with actor Vadivelu, Vijayakanth's co-star in a number of his films.{{cite news|date=7 March 2021|title=Vadivelu met Captain Vijayakanth and apologized tearfully?|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/vadivelu-met-captain-vijayakanth-and-apologized-tearfully-for-hate-speech--tamil-news-281874|access-date=30 December 2023|work=IndiaGlitz|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230041533/https://www.indiaglitz.com/vadivelu-met-captain-vijayakanth-and-apologized-tearfully-for-hate-speech--tamil-news-281874|url-status=live}}{{cite news|date=14 May 2011|title=Captain comes into form in his second innings|newspaper=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/assembly-elections-2011/tamil-nadu/captain-comes-into-form-in-his-second-innings/articleshow/8309838.cms|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230041533/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/assembly-elections-2011/tamil-nadu/captain-comes-into-form-in-his-second-innings/articleshow/8309838.cms|url-status=live}} This led to attack of Vadivelu's residence by men, whom Vadivelu claimed were from Vijayakanth's party and subsequent legal cases.{{cite web|url=http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/41724.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080924125910/http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/41724.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=24 September 2008|title=Vadivelu's house attacked|work=IndiaGlitz|access-date=25 January 2014}} This was refuted by Vijayakanth.{{cite news|url=http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/sep-08-04/vijayakanth-22-09-08.html|title=Vijayakanth explains|work=Behindwoods|date=4 September 2008|access-date=25 January 2014|archive-date=16 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016071526/http://www.behindwoods.com/tamil-movie-news-1/sep-08-04/vijayakanth-22-09-08.html|url-status=live}} Vadivelu subsequently campaigned against Vijayakanth in the elections.{{cite news|title=Will Vadivelu take on Vijaykanth?|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2011/mar/23/will-vadivelu-take-on-vijaykanth-238033.html|access-date=28 December 2023|newspaper=The New Indian Express|date=16 May 2012|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228094424/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2011/mar/23/will-vadivelu-take-on-vijaykanth-238033.html|url-status=live }}{{cite news|url=https://www.outlookindia.com/newswire/story/vijayakanth-hits-back-at-jaya-for-criticising-party-workers/925483|title=Vijayakanth Hits Back at Jaya for Criticising Party Workers|work=Outlook|access-date=3 December 2020|archive-date=23 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210623082057/https://www.outlookindia.com/newswire/story/vijayakanth-hits-back-at-jaya-for-criticising-party-workers/925483|url-status=live}}

File:Shri Vijayakanth with DMDK delegation calling on the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, in New Delhi on April 27, 2015.jpg Narendra Modi in 2015.]]

DMDK won 29 seats and emerged as the second largest party in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.{{cite news|date=13 May 2011|title=DMDK emerges the second largest party|newspaper=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/dmdk-emerges-the-second-largest-party/article2015858.ece|access-date=28 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=27 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227173619/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/dmdk-emerges-the-second-largest-party/article2015858.ece|url-status=live }}{{cite news|last=Prem Kumar|first=S. K.|date=29 December 2023|title=Vijayakanth faced three big shots in 2006-2009 eleections|url=https://www.vikatan.com/government-and-politics/vijayakanth-faced-three-big-shots-in-2006-2009-elections|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Vikatan|language=ta|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230012639/https://www.vikatan.com/government-and-politics/vijayakanth-faced-three-big-shots-in-2006-2009-elections|url-status=live }} Vijayakanth won from Rishivandiyam, after securing 53.2% of the votes polled.{{cite web|title=Statistical report on Tamil Nadu Assembly election 2001|url=http://eci.nic.in/eci_main/StatisticalReports/AE2011/stat_TN_May2011.pdf|year=2011|page=36|publisher=Election Commission of India|access-date=10 November 2013|archive-date=5 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305020743/http://eci.nic.in/eci_main/StatisticalReports/AE2011/stat_TN_May2011.pdf|url-status=live}} Following its performance in the 2011 assembly elections, DMDK was officially recognised as a state party by the Election Commission of India and Vijayakanth was elected as the Leader of Opposition in the Tamil Nadu assembly.{{cite news|url=http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=242863|title=DMDK will get recognition from EC|newspaper=Dinamalar|language=ta|access-date=25 January 2014|date=20 May 2011|archive-date=20 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110520211209/http://www.dinamalar.com/News_Detail.asp?Id=242863|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/news/slide-show/slide-show-1-tn-bye-elections-which-way-will-the-tide-turn/20120313.htm|title=Allies turned foes Jaya and Vijayakanth face off in TN bypoll|work=Rediff|access-date=25 January 2014|archive-date=12 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140112231135/http://www.rediff.com/news/slide-show/slide-show-1-tn-bye-elections-which-way-will-the-tide-turn/20120313.htm|url-status=live}} Over the next two years, rifts developed between Vijayakanth and then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu and leader of AIADMK Jayalalithaa, which resulted in separation between the two alliance partners.{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/news/slide-show/slide-show-1-tn-bye-elections-which-way-will-the-tide-turn/20120313.htm|title=Allies-turned-foes Jaya and Vijayakanth face off in TN bypoll|work=Rediff|access-date=25 January 2014|archive-date=12 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140112231135/http://www.rediff.com/news/slide-show/slide-show-1-tn-bye-elections-which-way-will-the-tide-turn/20120313.htm|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=http://www.rediff.com/news/slide-show/slide-show-1-jayalalithaa-treats-allies-as-subservient-not-equals/20120202.htm|title='Jayalalithaa treats allies as subservient, not equals'|work=Rediff|access-date=25 January 2014|archive-date=12 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140112231128/http://www.rediff.com/news/slide-show/slide-show-1-jayalalithaa-treats-allies-as-subservient-not-equals/20120202.htm|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/tamil-nadu/jayalalithaa-says-she-s-ashamed-of-alliance-with-vijayakanth-172346|title=Jayalalithaa says she's ashamed of alliance with Vijayakanth|work=NDTV|access-date=25 January 2014|archive-date=12 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140112224555/http://www.ndtv.com/article/tamil-nadu/jayalalithaa-says-she-s-ashamed-of-alliance-with-vijayakanth-172346|url-status=live}} For the 2014 Indian general elections, Vijayakanth entered into the National Democratic Alliance led by the Bharatiya Janata Party.{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakanth was a close friend, fondly recall my interactions: PM Modi on DMDK leader's death|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/vijayakanth-was-a-close-friend-fondly-recall-my-interactions-pm-modi-on-dmdk-leaders-death-101703738326515.html|access-date=28 December 2023|newspaper=The Hindustan Times|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093747/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/vijayakanth-was-a-close-friend-fondly-recall-my-interactions-pm-modi-on-dmdk-leaders-death-101703738326515.html|url-status=live }} His party contested 14 seats but did not win a single seat.{{cite report|url=https://old.eci.gov.in/files/file/2824-state-wise-seat-won-and-valid-votes-polled-by-political-party/|title=State wise seats won|publisher=Election Commission of India|access-date=10 November 2023}}

In February 2016, Vijayakanth lost his position as the Leader of Opposition in the Tamil Nadu assembly after ten of his party MLAs resigned from the assembly.{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/10-mlas-resign-in-tn-vijayakanth-loses-opposition-leader-status/article8264380.ece|title=10 MLAs resign in TN assembly|newspaper=Business Line|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200726103428/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/10-mlas-resign-in-tn-vijayakanth-loses-opposition-leader-status/article8264380.ece|archive-date=26 July 2020|date=21 February 2016|access-date=4 December 2016}} For the 2016 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly elections, he led the People's Welfare Front alliance.{{cite news|title=Vijayakanth, Captain of Tamil Nadu's 3rd Front, Loses and How|url=https://www.ndtv.com/elections-news/wipeout-for-vijayakanth-in-tamil-nadu-polls-loses-deposit-1408028|access-date=28 December 2023|work=NDTV|archive-date=23 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190823221940/https://www.ndtv.com/elections-news/wipeout-for-vijayakanth-in-tamil-nadu-polls-loses-deposit-1408028|url-status=live }} During the election campaign, he criticised actor Rajinikanth, which caused backlash from the supporters of Rajinikanth.{{cite news|url=http://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/sections-of-rajini-fans-back-dmk-after-vijayakanths-comments-1396620|title=Angry Rajinikanth Fans Snub Vijayakanth, Support DMK Candidate|work=NDTV|access-date=5 November 2016|archive-date=6 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161106122755/http://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/sections-of-rajini-fans-back-dmk-after-vijayakanths-comments-1396620|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/assembly-elections/captain-vs-thalaivar-vijayakanth-s-statements-irk-rajinikanth-s-fans/story-eebch04IHhR2tzrIMjur7J.html|title=Captain vs Superstar: Vijayakanth's statements irk Rajinikanth's fans|date=18 April 2016|newspaper=The Hindustan Times|access-date=5 November 2016|archive-date=6 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161106122736/http://www.hindustantimes.com/assembly-elections/captain-vs-thalaivar-vijayakanth-s-statements-irk-rajinikanth-s-fans/story-eebch04IHhR2tzrIMjur7J.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last1=Chellappan|first1=Kumar|title=No real Tamil-speaking leaders in TN!|url=https://www.dailypioneer.com/2014/india/no-real-tamil-speaking-leaders-in-tn.html|access-date=9 March 2021|work=The Pioneer|date=23 December 2014|language=en|archive-date=3 December 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201203130412/https://www.dailypioneer.com/2014/india/no-real-tamil-speaking-leaders-in-tn.html|url-status=live }} He was also criticised for making obscene gestures in public, often towards journalists.{{cite news|title=Video Of DMDK Chief Vijayakanth Gesturing At Journalists Goes Viral|url=https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/video-of-dmdk-chief-vijayakanth-gesturing-at-journalists-goes-viral-1397592|access-date=9 March 2021|work=NDTV|date=21 April 2016|archive-date=2 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220602145810/https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/video-of-dmdk-chief-vijayakanth-gesturing-at-journalists-goes-viral-1397592|url-status=live }}{{cite news|title=Not thalaivaa, only saliva: Vijayakanth spits at journalists; AIADMK lawyer files complaint for insulting Jaya|url=https://www.firstpost.com/politics/dmdk-chief-vijayakanth-faces-flak-after-behaving-in-uncivilised-manner-with-journalists-2561906.html|access-date=9 March 2021|work=Firstpost|date=29 December 2015|archive-date=8 November 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108100528/https://www.firstpost.com/politics/dmdk-chief-vijayakanth-faces-flak-after-behaving-in-uncivilised-manner-with-journalists-2561906.html|url-status=live }} This led to several memes targeting him in the social media.{{cite news|title=DMDK goes to police against Vijayakanth memes|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/DMDK-goes-to-police-against-Vijayakanth-memes/articleshow/46228416.cms|access-date=9 March 2021|newspaper=The Times of India|date=16 January 2017|archive-date=2 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171002004910/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/DMDK-goes-to-police-against-Vijayakanth-memes/articleshow/46228416.cms|url-status=live }}{{cite news|title=DMDK files complaint against memes targetting Vijayakanth|url=https://www.sify.com/movies/dmdk-files-complaint-against-memes-targetting-vijayakanth-news-tamil-pcniX7febggff.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150214200843/http://www.sify.com/movies/dmdk-files-complaint-against-memes-targetting-vijayakanth-news-tamil-pcniX7febggff.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=14 February 2015|access-date=9 March 2021|work=Sify|date=13 February 2015|language=en}} He lost the election from Ulundurpet to R. Kumaraguru of the AIADMK and his party-led alliance failed to win any seats in the assembly.{{cite news|date=19 May 2016|title=DMDK chief Vijayakanth loses Ulundurpettai assembly seat, deposit|url=https://www.livemint.com/Politics/dmQX9NQYV7LWLrr81fFJxK/DMDK-chief-Vijayakanth-loses-Ulundurpettai-assembly-seat-d.html|access-date=28 December 2023|work=Live Mint|archive-date=4 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230604053409/https://www.livemint.com/Politics/dmQX9NQYV7LWLrr81fFJxK/DMDK-chief-Vijayakanth-loses-Ulundurpettai-assembly-seat-d.html|url-status=live}}{{cite report|title=Result of Tamil Nadu – Ulundurpettai|url=http://eciresults.nic.in/ConstituencywiseS2277.htm?ac=77|publisher=Election Commission of India|access-date=6 November 2016|date=19 May 2016|archive-date=14 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814193229/http://eciresults.nic.in/ConstituencywiseS2277.htm?ac=77|url-status=dead}} Despite being part of the winning alliance, his party fared poorly and failed to win any seat in the subsequent 2019 Indian general elections.{{cite news|date=27 May 2019|title=String of poor performances lands Captain Vijayakanth's party in trouble|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chennai/string-of-poor-performances-lands-captain-vijayakanths-party-in-trouble-5750903/|access-date=28 December 2023|newspaper=The Indian Express|archive-date=27 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190527132216/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chennai/string-of-poor-performances-lands-captain-vijayakanths-party-in-trouble-5750903/|url-status=live}} In the 2021 Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly election, his party secured just 0.43% of the total votes polled.{{cite report|url=https://ia802307.us.archive.org/21/items/httpseci.gov.infilesfile13680-tamil-nadu-general-legislative-election-2021/10-%20Detailed%20Results.pdf|title=Tamil Nadu general election 2021 results|publisher=Election Commission of India|access-date=6 November 2023}}{{cite web|title=Decoding the rise and fall of DMDK's Captain Vijayakanth|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-decriphering-the-rise-and-fall-of-dmdk-s-captain-vijayakanth-2215553|access-date=28 December 2023|work=Daily News and Analysis|archive-date=1 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220601214450/https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-decriphering-the-rise-and-fall-of-dmdk-s-captain-vijayakanth-2215553|url-status=live}} He continued to serve as the general secretary of DMDK till his death in December 2023.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/premalatha-vijayakant-elected-as-dmdk-general-secretary/article67637488.ece|title=Premalatha Vijayakant elected as DMDK general secretary|date=15 December 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Hindu|archive-date=14 July 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240714224338/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/premalatha-vijayakant-elected-as-dmdk-general-secretary/article67637488.ece|url-status=live}} He was often known for his "open and bold stance" during his political career.{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title='Vijayakanth was known for his open and bold stance'|newspaper=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/vijayakanth-was-known-for-his-open-and-bold-stance/articleshow/106342370.cms|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-8257|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230051732/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/vijayakanth-was-known-for-his-open-and-bold-stance/articleshow/106342370.cms|url-status=live }}

= Election results =

Elections !Assembly !Constituency !colspan="2"\|Party !Result !Vote percentage !Opposition Candidate !colspan="2"\|Opposition Party !Opposition vote percentage
class="wikitable sortable defaultcenter col3left col8left" style="font-size: 95%"
2006	13th	Vridhachalam	{{party color cell\|Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam}}	DMDK	{{Won}}	40.49	R. Govindasamy	{{party color cell\|Pattali Makkal Katchi}}	PMK	31.2
2011	14th	Rishivandiyam	{{party color cell\|Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam}}	DMDK	{{Won}}	53.19	S. Sivaraj	{{party color cell\|Indian National Congress}}	INC	35.22
2016	15th	Ulundurpet	{{party color cell\|Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam}}	DMDK	{{Lost}}	15.14	R. Kumaraguru	{{party color cell\|All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam}}	AIADMK	36.03

= Positions held =

class="wikitable sortable defaultcenter col2left col3left" style="font-size: 95%" !rowspan=2\|Elections !rowspan=2\|Position !rowspan=2\|Elected constituency !colspan=3\|Term in office
Assumed !Left !Time in office
2006 \|Member of Legislative Assembly \|Vriddhachalam \|17 May 2006 \|14 May 2011 \|{{age in years and days\|2006\|05\|17\|2011\|05\|14}}
2011 \|Leader of the Opposition \|Rishivandiyam \|27 May 2011 \|21 February 2016 \|4 years, 270 days
2011 \|Member of Legislative Assembly \|Rishivandiyam \|22 February 2016 \|21 May 2016 \|89 days

class="wikitable sortable defaultcenter col2left col3left" style="font-size: 95%"

!rowspan=2|Elections

!rowspan=2|Position

!rowspan=2|Elected constituency

!colspan=3|Term in office

Assumed

!Left

!Time in office

2006

|Member of Legislative Assembly

|Vriddhachalam

|17 May 2006

|14 May 2011

|{{age in years and days|2006|05|17|2011|05|14}}

2011

|Leader of the Opposition

|Rishivandiyam

|27 May 2011

|21 February 2016

|4 years, 270 days

2011

|Member of Legislative Assembly

|Rishivandiyam

|22 February 2016

|21 May 2016

|89 days

Other work

During his film career, Vijayakanth accepted deferred remuneration for certain films to help struggling film producers and also preached for food equality on film sets, demanding that all the crew members must be given the same quality meals that he was served.{{cite web|url=https://www.thenewstuff.in/captain-word-suits-him-sure|title=Captain... The word suits him for sure!|date=21 April 2020|access-date=14 August 2021|work=The News stuff|archive-date=14 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210814192907/https://www.thenewstuff.in/captain-word-suits-him-sure|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/captain-vijayakanth-passes-away-here-is-a-recap-of-the-cinematic-journey-of-the-inspirational-actor/photostory/106349486.cms|title=Captain Vijayakanth passes away! Here is a recap of the cinematic journey of the inspirational actor|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=21 April 2024|archive-date=13 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240613054943/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/captain-vijayakanth-passes-away-here-is-a-recap-of-the-cinematic-journey-of-the-inspirational-actor/photostory/106349486.cms|url-status=live}} He was involved in philanthropic work and offered food and meals through his office.{{cite web|date=21 April 2020|title=Salute! Captain Vijayakanth offered all his wealth to public 20 years ago|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/captain-vijayakanth-offering-his-wealth-to-public--tamil-news-258586|access-date=31 December 2023|website=IndiaGlitz.com|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231122054/https://www.indiaglitz.com/captain-vijayakanth-offering-his-wealth-to-public--tamil-news-258586|url-status=live}} He had also assisted several actors by offering consultancy and required financial help.{{cite web|title='Vijayakanth does not pay tax on all his income'|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2010/aug/24/vijayakanth-does-not-pay-tax-on-all-his-income-180664.html|access-date=31 December 2023|newspaper=The New Indian Express|date=16 May 2012|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231122054/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2010/aug/24/vijayakanth-does-not-pay-tax-on-all-his-income-180664.html|url-status=live }} In 2000, Vijayakanth was elected as the president of South Indian Film Artistes' Association and served till 2006. He is credited with bringing the association out of debt.{{cite web|url=http://cinematoday2.itgo.com/Hot%20News1%20.htm|title=Hot New|work=Cinema Today|access-date=25 January 2014|archive-date=13 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131013150710/http://cinematoday2.itgo.com/Hot%20News1%20.htm|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=How Vijayakanth repaid Nadigar Sangam's debts and helped Tamil film industry|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/how-vijayakanth-repaid-nadigar-sangams-debts-and-helped-tamil-film-industry-2481396-2023-12-28|access-date=28 December 2023|work=India Today|date=28 December 2023|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228094306/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/how-vijayakanth-repaid-nadigar-sangams-debts-and-helped-tamil-film-industry-2481396-2023-12-28|url-status=live }} He led the establishment of a charitable trust that paid pension to low-income members of the film industry.{{cite web|date=28 December 2023|title=How actor-turned-politician Vijayakanth earned the popular moniker 'Captain'|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/how-actor-turned-politician-vijayakanth-earned-the-popular-moniker-captain-101703741880892.html|access-date=28 December 2023|work=The Hindustan Times|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093826/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/how-actor-turned-politician-vijayakanth-earned-the-popular-moniker-captain-101703741880892.html|url-status=live }}{{cite web|last=Kannan|first=Ramya|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakant {{!}} The actor-politician who was more than just hope for his ardent followers|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/the-actor-politician-who-was-more-than-just-hope-for-his-ardent-followers/article67684875.ece|access-date=30 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230032150/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/the-actor-politician-who-was-more-than-just-hope-for-his-ardent-followers/article67684875.ece|url-status=live }}

In 2001, Vijayakanth founded Shri Andal Alagar College of Engineering. Vijayakanth launched a television channel Captain TV on 14 April 2010.{{cite news|title=Vijayakanth Launched Captain TV Logo Movie Launch and Press Meet photos, images, gallery, clips and actors actress stills|url=https://www.indiaglitz.com/tamil-events-vijayakanth-launched-captain-tv-logo-photos-20729|access-date=28 December 2023|work=IndiaGlitz|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228094343/https://www.indiaglitz.com/tamil-events-vijayakanth-launched-captain-tv-logo-photos-20729|url-status=live }} Vijayakanth later launched a news channel Captain News on 29 August 2012.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiantelevision.com/television/broadcasting/tv-channels/news/vijaykants-captain-news-to-launch-29-august?amp|title=Vijayakanth's Captain News to launch on 29 August|work=India television|date=20 June 2012|access-date=27 September 2020|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011224505/https://www.indiantelevision.com/television/broadcasting/tv-channels/news/vijaykants-captain-news-to-launch-29-august?amp|url-status=live}}

Health decline and death

Since mid-2010s, Vijayakanth faced health issues, as his speech slurred and he was unsteady during some political rallies and speeches. In 2017, he remarked that thyroid problems affected his vocal cord.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/i-dont-care-about-the-memes-made-on-me-vijayakant/articleshow/60924539.cms|title=I don't care about the memes made on me: Vijayakant|newspaper=The Times of India|date=4 October 2017|access-date=6 February 2024|archive-date=9 November 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171109184633/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tamil/movies/news/i-dont-care-about-the-memes-made-on-me-vijayakant/articleshow/60924539.cms|url-status=live}} In 2020, he tested positive for COVID-19, after which he had limited public appearance, often sporting a face mask.{{cite news|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/actor-politician-vijayakanth-admitted-to-chennai-hospital-after-testing-positive-for-coronavirus-1724829-2020-09-24|title=Vijayakanth tests coronavirus positive: His condition is stable, says hospital|work=India Today|date=24 September 2020|access-date=6 February 2024|archive-date=6 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206183628/https://www.indiatoday.in/amp/movies/regional-cinema/story/actor-politician-vijayakanth-admitted-to-chennai-hospital-after-testing-positive-for-coronavirus-1724829-2020-09-24|url-status=live}} In 2022, he underwent surgery to amputate three of his toes due to complications from diabetes, which confined Vijayakanth to wheelchair.{{cite news|date=22 June 2022|title=Former Actor Vijayakanth Fine After Surgery To Amputate Three Toes: Sources|url=https://www.outlookindia.com/art-entertainment/former-actor-vijayakanth-fine-after-surgery-to-amputate-three-toes-sources-news-203866|url-status=dead|work=Outlook|access-date=6 February 2024|archive-date=6 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240206183628/https://www.outlookindia.com/amp/story/art-entertainment/former-actor-vijayakanth-fine-after-surgery-to-amputate-three-toes-sources-news-203866}} In November 2023, he was admitted to hospital due to liver-related issues and tested positive for COVID-19 while he was in the hospital.{{cite news|author1=Julie Mariappan|author2=Pushpa Narayan|title=Vijayakanth Death News: DMDK chief Vijayakant passes away at 71 after prolonged illness|newspaper=The Times of India|date=28 December 2023|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/dmdk-chief-vijayakant-on-ventilator-support-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19/articleshow/106336164.cms|access-date=28 December 2023|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228035036/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/dmdk-chief-vijayakant-on-ventilator-support-after-testing-positive-for-covid-19/articleshow/106336164.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title=DMDK chief Vijayakanth dies, was on ventilator after testing Covid positive|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/actor-turned-politician-vijayakanth-dies-aged-71-was-on-ventilator-support-after-testing-covid-positive-2481340-2023-12-28|access-date=28 December 2023|work=India Today|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228092526/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/actor-turned-politician-vijayakanth-dies-aged-71-was-on-ventilator-support-after-testing-covid-positive-2481340-2023-12-28|url-status=live }}

On 28 December 2023, Vijayakanth died at the age of 71.{{cite news|work=Live Mint|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakanth, actor-politician and DMDK founder, passes away in Chennai|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/chennai-covid-update-vijayakanth-actor-politician-and-dmdk-founder-succumbs-to-illness-in-chennai-11703734700177.html|access-date=28 December 2023|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228094639/https://www.livemint.com/news/chennai-covid-update-vijayakanth-actor-politician-and-dmdk-founder-succumbs-to-illness-in-chennai-11703734700177.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title='Captain' Vijayakanth passes away: Who was the actor-turned-politician?|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/who-is/who-was-tamil-actor-politician-captain-vijayakanth-9085982/|access-date=28 December 2023|newspaper=The Indian Express|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228094313/https://indianexpress.com/article/who-is/who-was-tamil-actor-politician-captain-vijayakanth-9085982/|url-status=live }}{{cite news|last=Ramachandran|first=Naman|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakanth, Indian Actor and Politician, Dies at 71|url=https://variety.com/2023/film/news/vijayakanth-dead-indian-actor-politician-1235851790/|access-date=28 December 2023|work=Variety|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228082319/https://variety.com/2023/film/news/vijayakanth-dead-indian-actor-politician-1235851790/|url-status=live}} His death was condoled by various political leaders,{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title=Mamata condoles DMDK chief Vijayakanth's death|url=https://theprint.in/india/mamata-condoles-dmdk-chief-vijayakanths-death/1903315/|access-date=28 December 2023|website=The Print|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228162619/https://theprint.in/india/mamata-condoles-dmdk-chief-vijayakanths-death/1903315/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title=Edappadi Palaniswami condoles Vijayakanth's demise, calls him 'beloved brother'|url=https://www.dtnext.in/news/tamilnadu/edappadi-palaniswami-condoles-vijayakanths-demise-calls-him-beloved-brother-757230|access-date=28 December 2023|newspaper=Daily Thanthi|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228105421/https://www.dtnext.in/news/tamilnadu/edappadi-palaniswami-condoles-vijayakanths-demise-calls-him-beloved-brother-757230|url-status=live }}{{Cite web|date=28 December 2023|title=YS Jagan mourns over demise of Vijayakanth, extends condolences to family|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/news/cities/vijayawada/vijayawada-ap-has-turned-into-ganja-hub-under-ysrcp-regime-alleges-lokesh-847358?infinitescroll=1|access-date=28 December 2023|newspaper=Hans India|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228105749/https://www.thehansindia.com/news/cities/vijayawada/vijayawada-ap-has-turned-into-ganja-hub-under-ysrcp-regime-alleges-lokesh-847358?infinitescroll=1|url-status=live}} and members of the film industry.{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title=Vijayakanth death {{!}} Tributes pour in from Tamil film fraternity|newspaper=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/vijayakants-demise-tributes-pour-in-from-film-fraternity/article67682494.ece|access-date=28 December 2023|issn=0971-751X|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228093944/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/vijayakants-demise-tributes-pour-in-from-film-fraternity/article67682494.ece|url-status=live}}{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title=DMDK chief Vijayakanth dies at 71: PM Modi, Vikram and others react to 'Captain's' death|url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/trends/entertainment/vijayakanth-dies-71-pm-modi-vikram-and-others-react-to-the-actors-death-11966121.html|access-date=28 December 2023|work=Money Control|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228062328/https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/trends/entertainment/vijayakanth-dies-71-pm-modi-vikram-and-others-react-to-the-actors-death-11966121.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title='Man with a golden heart', 'humanitarian': Condolences pour in for DMDK founder Vijayakanth|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/tamil-nadu/man-with-a-golden-heart-humanitarian-condolences-pour-in-for-dmdk-founder-vijayakanth-2827662|access-date=28 December 2023|newspaper=Deccan Herald|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228105420/https://www.deccanherald.com/india/tamil-nadu/man-with-a-golden-heart-humanitarian-condolences-pour-in-for-dmdk-founder-vijayakanth-2827662|url-status=live}} The Government of Tamil Nadu announced full state honours for his funeral.{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title=Tamil Nadu CM Stalin hails Vijaykanth as an 'achiever', announces state honours for funeral|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/india/tamil-nadu-cm-stalin-hails-vijaykanth-as-an-achiever-announces-state-honours-for-funeral-article-106340618|access-date=28 December 2023|work=Times Now|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228063049/https://www.timesnownews.com/india/tamil-nadu-cm-stalin-hails-vijaykanth-as-an-achiever-announces-state-honours-for-funeral-article-106340618|url-status=live}} His body was kept in state at his residence in Saligramam, later at the Island Grounds for the public to pay their tributes.{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title=DMDK founder Vijayakant's death updates|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/vijayakanth-death-live-updates-december-28-2023/article67682365.ece|access-date=28 December 2023|newspaper=The Hindu|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228060426/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/vijayakanth-death-live-updates-december-28-2023/article67682365.ece|url-status=live }} On the evening of 29 December 2023, his body was taken on a public procession and the last rites were performed. He was buried with state honours in a sandalwood casket in the premises of the headquarters of Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam in Koyambedu.{{cite news|date=29 December 2023|title=DMDK founder Vijayakant's funeral|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/vijayakanth-death-live-updates-december-29-2023/article67685771.ece|access-date=29 December 2023|newspaper=The Hindu}}{{cite news|date=29 December 2023|title=Vijayakanth's funeral|url=https://www.dinamani.com/tamilnadu/2023/dec/29/vijayakanth-body-cremated-in-chennai-koyambedu-4130620.amp|language=ta|access-date=29 December 2023|newspaper=Dinamani|archive-date=29 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229135936/https://www.dinamani.com/tamilnadu/2023/dec/29/vijayakanth-body-cremated-in-chennai-koyambedu-4130620.amp|url-status=live }} On 3 January 2024, the Indian prime minister Narendra Modi wrote a tribute to Vijayakanth on his website.{{cite web|title=PM pens heartfelt tribute to Captain Vijayakanth|url=https://www.pmindia.gov.in/en/news_updates/pm-pens-heartfelt-tribute-to-captain-vijayakanth/?comment=disable|work=Prime Minister's office|date=3 January 2024|access-date=3 January 2024}}{{cite web|title=A tribute to Captain!|url=https://www.narendramodi.in/a-tribute-to-captain|work=Narendramodi.in|date=3 January 2024|access-date=3 January 2024}}

Awards and honors

Vijayakanth won two Filmfare Awards South, three Tamil Nadu State Film Awards and was awarded the Kalaimamani title in 2001.{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title=Passing of Tamil Cinema icon & DMDK founder 'Captain' Vijayakanth leaves a void that will be hard to fill: PM Modi|url=https://www.firstpost.com/india/passing-of-tamil-cinema-icon-and-dmdk-founder-captain-vijayakanth-leaves-a-void-that-will-be-hard-to-fill-pm-modi-13553282.html|access-date=30 December 2023|work=Firstpost|archive-date=30 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231230051732/https://www.firstpost.com/india/passing-of-tamil-cinema-icon-and-dmdk-founder-captain-vijayakanth-leaves-a-void-that-will-be-hard-to-fill-pm-modi-13553282.html|url-status=live }} In January 2024, he was posthumously awarded India's third-highest civilian honour, the Padma Bhushan, by the Government of India.{{cite web|title=Padma Awardees List 2024|url=https://www.padmaawards.gov.in/Content/PadmaAwardees2024.pdf|publisher=Government of India|date=25 January 2024|access-date=26 January 2024|archive-date=25 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240125173137/https://www.padmaawards.gov.in/Content/PadmaAwardees2024.pdf|url-status=live }}{{cite news|last=K.|first=Janani|date=26 January 2024|title=Actor-politician Vijayakanth awarded Padma Bhushan posthumously|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/actor-politician-vijayakanth-awarded-padma-bhushan-posthumously-2493786-2024-01-26|work=India Today|access-date=26 January 2024|archive-date=26 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240126054903/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/actor-politician-vijayakanth-awarded-padma-bhushan-posthumously-2493786-2024-01-26|url-status=live}}

Vijayakanth was credited as "Puratchi Kalaignar" (revolutionary artist) and "Captain" in the film titles as he often appeared in roles as a law enforcer, vigilante, or a village head.{{cite web|last=Ramanujam|first=Srinivasa|title=Why is Vijayakanth called 'Captain'? A throwback to the actor's 100th film|work=The Hindu|date=28 December 2023|url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/why-is-vijayakanth-called-captain-a-throwback-to-the-actors-100th-film/article67682565.ece|access-date=28 December 2023|archive-date=28 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231228082310/https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/movies/why-is-vijayakanth-called-captain-a-throwback-to-the-actors-100th-film/article67682565.ece|url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=https://www.theweek.in/theweek/statescan/vijayakanth-finds-himself-nowhere-in-tamil-nadu-politics.html|title=Captain's curse|date=12 June 2016|work=The Week|access-date=27 September 2020|archive-date=6 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190706025158/https://www.theweek.in/theweek/statescan/vijayakanth-finds-himself-nowhere-in-tamil-nadu-politics.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Difference between a mere actor and a star is a grandiose appellation in the glitzy world of South Indian cinema|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/difference-between-a-mere-actor-and-a-star-is-a-grandiose-appellation-in-the-glitzy-world-of-south-indian-cinema/articleshow/18359967.cms|access-date=30 March 2021|work=The Economic Times|date=6 February 2013|archive-date=19 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419012340/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/difference-between-a-mere-actor-and-a-star-is-a-grandiose-appellation-in-the-glitzy-world-of-south-indian-cinema/articleshow/18359967.cms|url-status=live}} In 2014, an ex-serviceman lodged a complaint against Vijayakanth at the Madras High Court for using the title "captain", arguing that the term is attached to the Indian Army, is an insult to servicemen and is illegal for common people to use it.{{cite news|date=28 December 2023|title=Did you know a case was filed against Vijayakanth for his moniker Captain?|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/did-you-know-a-case-was-filed-against-vijayakanth-for-his-moniker-captain-9086159/|access-date=31 December 2023|newspaper=The Indian Express|archive-date=31 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231231094036/https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/tamil/did-you-know-a-case-was-filed-against-vijayakanth-for-his-moniker-captain-9086159/|url-status=live}} He was listed amongst the top 20 best Tamil actors of all time by Cinemaholic in 2022.{{cite web|last=Kaluvakunta|first=Badrinath|date=3 June 2022|url=https://thecinemaholic.com/best-tamil-actors-of-all-time/|title=20 Greatest Tamil Actors of All Time|work=Cinemaholic|access-date=20 July 2022|archive-date=27 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220627123746/https://thecinemaholic.com/best-tamil-actors-of-all-time/|url-status=live}} He was likened to former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. G. Ramachandran for his humanitarian work and was often referred to as "Black M.G.R.".{{cite web|url=https://thefederal.com/states/south/tamil-nadu/is-vijayakant-reviving-the-black-mgr-image-amid-covid-19-pandemic/|title=Is Vijayakant reviving the 'Black MGR' image amid COVID-19 pandemic?|date=22 April 2020|work=The Federal|access-date=27 September 2020|archive-date=11 October 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201011224440/https://thefederal.com/states/south/tamil-nadu/is-vijayakant-reviving-the-black-mgr-image-amid-covid-19-pandemic/amp/|url-status=live}}