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Vijayakanth (Politician) Biography: Age, Career, Family and More
Quick Info
Date of birth25 August 1952
Age71 (at time of death)
BirthplaceMadurai, Tamil Nadu
ProfessionPolitician, Actor
NationalityIndian
Marital statusMarried
SpousePremalatha Vijayakant
FamilyTwo sons: Shanmuga Pandian and Vijay Prabhakar
Vijayakanth (Politician) Biography
Vijayakanth was a prominent Tamil film actor who transitioned into politics, founding the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK). He built a long acting‑r
Early life and backgroundVijayakanth was born Narayanan Vijayaraj Alagarswami on 25 August 1952 in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. He grew up in a large family and spent his early schooling years across several local schools, completing education to the tenth‑grade level. His father, K. N. Alagarswami, was a businessman. Vijayakanth later relocated from Madurai to Chennai to pursue a career in films.
He adopted the stage name Vijayakanth early in his career. His mother, Aandal Azhagarswami, died when he was an infant; he was raised alongside multiple siblings and step‑siblings. He was known by several sobriquets during his public life, including Puratchi Kalaignar and Captain.
Acting career
Vijayakanth made his debut in Tamil cinema with the 1979 film Inikkum Ilamai. His breakthrough came quickly: he gained notice for the role of Ponnan in Doorathu Idi Muzhakkam (1980) and reached commercial hero status with Sattam Oru Iruttarai (1981). Across the 1980s and 1990s he became associated with action roles and portrayals of angry, socially conscious protagonists. After playing a negative role in Om Shakti (1982), he did not return to antagonistic parts.
Over a long film career he took on many memorable characters. His performance as DSP Deenadayalan in Oomai Vizhigal (1986) increased his standing among contemporary leading actors. He appeared with major names of the era and collected several honours for his work, including state awards and Filmfare recognition. His 100th film, Captain Prabhakaran (1991), cemented the “Captain” title that he carried publicly thereafter.
Vijayakanth also served in leadership positions within the industry. In 2000 he became president of the South Indian Film Artistes’ Association (Nadigar Sangam) and led fundraising efforts to address the union’s debts. He continued to act while taking on industry and public responsibilities, including notable performances such as the dual roles in Vaanathai Pola (2000).
Political career
Vijayakanth founded the regional party Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK). He served as the party president from 14 September 2005 until 28 December 2023 and held the post of general secretary from 1 June 2014 to 14 December 2023. In state politics he was elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from Virudhachalam (26 May 2006 to 14 May 2011) and from Rishivandiyam (23 May 2011 to 21 May 2016). From 27 May 2011 until 21 February 2016 he served as Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.
Outside politics and philanthropy
Vijayakanth founded the Shri Andal Alagar College of Engineering in Mamandur, Tamil Nadu, and provided free education to its students. He also declared 1 October to be observed as Actors’ Day in Tamil Nadu, in honour of Sivaji Ganesan’s birthday.
Public profile
Vijayakanth was a high‑profile public figure in both cinema and state politics. Over his career he received many awards and honours for his film work and public service, including state film awards, a Kalaimamani award, and recognition from film organisations. In 2011 he was conferred an honorary doctorate by an institute in Florida. Posthumously, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 2024.
His public life included controversies and legal disputes at various times, including confrontations with other public figures and cases recorded against him under several sections of the Indian Penal Code. These incidents were reported in the media during his later political career.
Personal life
Vijayakanth married Premalatha Vijayakant, a costume designer who later became active in politics, on 31 January 1990. They had two sons: Shanmuga Pandian, who entered acting, and Vijay Prabhakar. He remained based in Chennai and maintained public ties to his native Madurai.
Death
Vijayakanth died on 28 December 2023 in Chennai at the age of 71. Reports stated that he suffered from pneumonia after testing positive for Covid‑19.
Latest updates
His death marked the end of a career that bridged popular cinema and regional politics. Posthumous recognition included the Padma Bhushan in 2024, reflecting his enduring public profile in Tamil Nadu.
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Recent Work
Served as Leader of the Opposition from 27 May 2011 to 21 February 2016 while representing Rishivandiyam constituency.
2011–2016Founded and led the regional party from 14 September 2005 until 28 December 2023.
2005–2023Career Highlights
- Founded the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK) and led it for nearly two decades
- Achieved commercial success as an action star in Tamil cinema, including a landmark 100th film, Captain Prabhakaran
- Served as Leader of the Opposition in the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly (2011–2016)
- President of the South Indian Film Artistes’ Association and undertook fundraising to clear union debts
- Established a college offering free education to its students
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was Vijayakanth (Politician) born?
Vijayakanth (Politician) was born on 25 August 1952.
What is Vijayakanth (Politician) known for?
Vijayakanth (Politician) is known for politician, Actor.
What is Vijayakanth (Politician)’s marital status?
Vijayakanth (Politician)'s marital status is listed as Married.
Who is Vijayakanth (Politician) married to?
Vijayakanth (Politician) is publicly listed as married to Premalatha Vijayakant.
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