Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday paid tributes to Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) founder and renowned actor Vijayakanth.
He said Vijayakanth was 'captain' not just in cinema but in politics too.
"Just a few days ago, we lost Thiru Vijayakanth ji. He was a captain not only in the world of cinema, but also in politics. He won the hearts of people through his work in cinema. As a politician, he always put national interest above everything. I pay my tributes to him and express condolences to his family and admirers,"he said.
Who is Vijayakanth?
He is the founder and leader of the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK). The versatile actor Vijayakanth, succumbed to Covid-19 in Chennai at the age of 71 last week.
Advertisement
Key political figures, actors, and well-wishers paid their respects to Vijayakanth on his death.
Fondly referred to as 'Captain', Vijayakanth's life is characterized by a prosperous career in the Tamil film industry.
He appeared in 154 movies before entering politics. Vijayakanth made a significant impact in the South Indian film industry.
While holding a position at Nadigar Sangam, officially known as the South Indian Artists' Association (SIAA), he implemented revolutionary changes. Additionally,
Vijayakanth served as a member of the Legislative Assembly twice, representing the Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam constituencies.
PM Modi’s tribute to Vijayakanth, who died on December 28 after battling a long illness, drew loud cheers. The 71-year-old leader, a key figure in the Tamil Nadu political landscape, got the title 'Captain' for his role in 1991 movie Captain Prabhakaran.
Advertisement
PM Modi’s 2-day Tamil Nadu visit:
PM Modi is on a two-day visit to Tamil Nadu for a host of events. On Tuesday, he inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for development projects worth nearly Rs 20,000 crore and opened the new terminal at Trichy airport.
PM Modi shares stage with Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin:
PM Modi attended a convocation event at Bharathidasan University in Tiruchirapalli as chief guest.
He shared stage with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin.
Stalin, who leads the DMK, is a key face of the INDIA Opposition bloc that is gearing up to take on the ruling BJP in the Lok Sabha polls this year.
PM Modi makes mention about recent Tamil Nadu floods:
PM Modi also spoke about the floods in Tamil Nadu.
"The last few weeks of 2023 were difficult for many people in Tamil Nadu. We lost many of our fellow citizens due to heavy rainfall. There has also been a significant loss of property. The central government stands with the people of Tamil Nadu in this time of crisis. We are providing every possible support to the state government," he said.
PM Modi also paid tribute to late agricultural scientist Dr MS Swaminathan.
He went on to pay his respects to agricultural scientist Dr Swaminathan, who is considered the main architect of the green revolution that ensured India's food security.
Advertisement
The 98-year-old died this September. "I also remember another son of Tamil Nadu, Dr MS Swaminathan. He played an important role in ensuring food security for our country. We lost him last year as well," he said.
