South Indian Actor-Politician Vijayakanth Dies at 71

Veteran Tamil actor and DMDK chief, Vijayakanth, aged 71, passed away at a private hospital in Chennai. The actor was under ventilator support after contracting Covid-19, as confirmed by his party. However, the hospital's official statement cited pneumonia as the cause of his death.

Hospital Confirms Pneumonia as the Cause

In a formal statement, the hospital clarified, "Captain Vijayakanth was on ventilatory support following his admission for pneumonia. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, he passed away in the morning on 28th December 2023."

State Mourning and Full Honors

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced that the late DMDK leader would be laid to rest with full state honors. The demise of the prominent figure has triggered a wave of grief across Chennai and the state.

Condolences Pour In

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his condolences in a heartfelt post, expressing sorrow over the loss of his "close friend." He remarked that Vijayakanth's passing leaves a "void that will be hard to fill."