The Life and Fate of Captain Vijayakanth: From Film Star to Political Leader

Captain Vijayakanth, a prominent figure in Tamil cinema, made a significant transition from the silver screen to the political arena. Known for his powerful on-screen presence and charismatic personality, Vijayakanth’s journey in politics had its highs and lows. This article explores his unconventional choices, political ambitions, philanthropy, and the challenges he faced along the way.

Unconventional Choices

Vijayakanth, much like his on-screen persona, made unconventional choices in his personal life as well. When it came to marriage, he opted for a partner from a non-cinema family. He married Premalatha, a graduate from a financially sound Telugu Naidu family. This decision was influenced by the non-controversial weddings of renowned actors Sivaji Ganesan and Shivakumar. Premalatha’s presence in Vijayakanth’s life would later be seen as having a strong influence on his career and relationships.

Political Ambitions

Vijayakanth’s political journey began with the launch of his party, the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK). He aimed to follow in the footsteps of his idol, the legendary actor and politician MGR. With his wife Premalatha emerging as a compelling orator, Vijayakanth was often referred to as the “Karuppu MGR” or “Dark MGR.”

In the 2006 Assembly elections, the DMDK contested all 234 seats in Tamil Nadu but won only one seat, Vijayakanth’s. However, the party managed to secure an impressive 8% of the total vote share. The 2009 Lok Sabha polls further solidified the DMDK’s position as the third-largest party in Tamil Nadu, with a vote share of 10.3%.

The pinnacle of the DMDK’s political journey came in the 2011 Assembly elections. In alliance with the AIADMK, the party won 29 out of the 41 seats it contested, securing the position of the main opposition party. Vijayakanth became the Leader of the Opposition, a significant milestone for his political career.

Philanthropy and Generosity

Besides his political ambitions, Vijayakanth also made a name for himself through philanthropy. He believed deeply in the act of giving and considered it his greatest achievement. In 2014, he donated two-wheelers to disabled party sympathizers, distributing four vehicles in each of Tamil Nadu’s 33 districts. In 2018, he donated Rs 1 crore to Kerala’s relief fund, showcasing his generosity and concern for those in need.

The Marginalization

Despite the initial successes, the DMDK’s political fortunes began to decline. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the party failed to win a single seat. However, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) capitalized on Vijayakanth’s popularity and gained a presence in the state.

In the 2016 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, the DMDK aligned with a coalition of Left-wing parties but managed only 2.4% of the votes. Vijayakanth’s declining health became apparent, with shorter public appearances and Premalatha taking a more prominent role. The 2019 Lok Sabha and 2021 Assembly polls further showcased a diminishing Vijayakanth, with his vote share falling to 2.16% and 0.43%, respectively.

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The Legacy

Vijayakanth’s declining health led to Premalatha’s appointment as the general secretary of the DMDK. She acknowledged the challenges ahead and compared their situation to the transition from MGR to Jayalalithaa. However, Vijayakanth’s legacy could never match that of MGR, and with the BJP’s presence in Tamil Nadu, Premalatha may face significant obstacles in filling the political void left by her husband.

Despite the challenges, the DMDK remains a significant political entity in Tamil Nadu. Premalatha expressed confidence in the party’s future and declared their intention to send MPs to Delhi in the upcoming 2024 elections. The political landscape may change, but the impact of Captain Vijayakanth’s journey will always be remembered.

In conclusion, Captain Vijayakanth’s life and fate in both the film industry and politics were marked by his unconventional choices, lofty ambitions, philanthropy, and the challenges he faced. While his political journey had its ups and downs, his legacy as a charismatic leader and philanthropist will endure.