Vijayakanth (1952-2023): The life and times of a self-made man

A self-made man in movies and public life, Vijayakanth shone in Kollywood for three decades and remained in politics for two decades.

on 25 August 1952 Vijayakant was born Narayanan Vijayaraj Alagarswami and made his debut as a villain with ‘Inikkum Ilamai’ directed by M A Kaja in 1979.

Debuted as a commercial hero in 1981 with 'Sattam Oru Iruttarai,' directed by S A Chandrasekhar; remade in Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada.

After the success of 'Pulan Visaranai' in 1990, starred in 'Captain Prabhakaran' (1991), earning the moniker 'Captain.'

Vijayakant starred in blockbusters such as ‘Vaanathai Pola’ (2000), a rural family drama directed by Vikraman, which won the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Film of the year and National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.

When ‘Naalaiya Theerpu’ (1992) didn’t do well at the box office, Vijay’s father and director S A Chandrasekhar approached Vijayakanth to do ‘Sendhoorapandi’ with Vijay as he was badly in need of a break after a few flops.

"Vijayakant did not even want to get paid for his role. Such was his greatness and gratitude towards me,” says Chandrasekhar.

Founded Shri Andal Alagar College of Engineering, Kancheepuram, in 2001. Formally launched DMDK in 2005 and launched a 24-hour television channel called Captain TV on 14 April 2010.

Formed an alliance with AIADMK in 2011 and contested in 41 constituencies. His party saw success, winning 29 of the seats. Notably, DMDK won more seats than the DMK. Vijayakant occupied the position of opposition leader for the first time and MLA for the second time, winning the Rishivandhiyam constituency.