Actor, DMDK chief Vijayakanth dies of Covid in Chennai

PTC Web Desk: Actor and DMDK chief Vijayakanth, aged 71, passed away at a private hospital in Chennai on Thursday. He had been on ventilator support after testing positive for Covid-19.

The hospital issued a statement confirming his death: "Captain Vijayakanth was on ventilatory support due to pneumonia. Despite the dedicated efforts of the medical team, he passed away this morning on December 28, 2023."

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Initially admitted for a routine health check-up on Tuesday, actor and DMDK chief Vijayakanth's condition deteriorated rapidly. Earlier in November, he was hospitalised for respiratory issues.

Known for his illustrious career in cinema, starring in 154 movies, Vijayakanth transitioned into politics, establishing the DMDK party. He served twice as a Member of Legislative Assembly, representing Virudhachalam and Rishivandiyam. Notably, he held the position of Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from 2011 to 2016.

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In recent times, Vijayakanth's declining health prompted reduced involvement in active political affairs.