Rajinikanth pays tribute to old friend Captain Vijayakanth in Chennai; interacts with media

Veteran Tamil actor and DMDK chief Vijayakanth passed away at the age of 71 on Thursday, 28 December due to ill health. The actor-turned-politician was recently admitted to a private hospital in Chennai due to pneumonia, however, he died after his condition deteriorated and was put on a ventilator. While condolences and tributes from fans, supporters, and celebrities have been pouring across social media platforms, legendary actor Rajnikanth has now also paid his heartfelt tribute to the late actor. Rajinikanth who was in Tuticorin, shooting for his upcoming film immediately halted his work and headed straight to Chennai.

On Friday, the actor met Vijayakanth’s family and shared condolences with his wife Premalatha and his two sons. He was also seen paying floral tribute to the late actor.

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Actor Rajinikanth pays tribute to DMDK chief and Actor Captain Vijayakanth at Island ground, Anna Salai in Chennai.

DMDK chief Captain Vijayakanth passed away at a hospital in Chennai yesterday. pic.twitter.com/EcZZ6eR7wm

— ANI (@ANI) December 29, 2023

Videos going viral on social media show the superstar getting emotional as he paid his last respects to his old friend. Later, Rajinikanth also spoke to the media after having a last look at his friend. From highlighting the selfless qualities of Vijayakanth to sharing his grief, the Jailer actor also recalled some fond memories with Captain.

Rajinikanth’s emotional speech on the demise of DMDK chief 

Earlier at the Tuticorin airport, Rajinikanth while sharing his grief recalled that he saw Vijayakanth last time at the DMDK’s general body meeting and hoped he would bounce back after battling his health issues.

“His death is a huge loss to the people of Tamil Nadu He would have done so many good deeds for the people. The people of Tamil Nadu have now lost him. May his soul rest in peace,” he added.

Later after paying his tributes at the Island Grounds where the mortal remains of Vijayakanth have been kept before the last rites, the actor once again addressed the media and gave an emotional speech.

“My heart aches. I could go all day talking about him. He was the epitome of friendship. Once you become friends with him, you’ll never be able to forget him.” the actor said.

Rajinikanth also recalled a few fond memories with the late actor, revealing how he had multiple times helped in clearing the crowd, once when he was admitted to the Ramachandra Hospital and next in Singapore.

“1000s have lived and 1000s have died, but who’s in the hearts of the people? Only people like Vijayakanth,” he concluded.

Despite having never worked in any films together, Vijayakanth and Rajinikanth were extremely fond of each other and shared a great bond.