In the world of Tamil cinema and politics, Vijayakanth, fondly known as Captain and Karuppu MGR, transcended the boundaries of stardom and leadership. His legacy is not merely a cinematic saga or a political journey; it is a testament to a man who seamlessly blended philanthropy, leadership, and the essence of being a true Tamizhan.
Beyond the glare of the spotlight, Vijayakanth earned the moniker Karuppu MGR not just for his on-screen charisma and his skin colour but for his philanthropic endeavours akin to MGR himself. His open-handed generosity, be it helping people financially or just feeding them any time anyone came home – be they bigshots or anyone else, they had to eat at home and only then leave or do the next job at hand.
Everybody knows that the man was as generous as Karna. But here are a few things about the man that only a few people know.
Revitalised Nadigar Sangam
In the annals of Tamil cinema, Vijayakanth’s feat of starring in 18 films in a single year stands as a testament to his unparalleled dedication. He took on the mantle of developing the Nadigar Sangam (South Indian Artist Association), serving as its president for an extensive period. Under his leadership, the association witnessed a transformative era, marked by numerous public events strategically aimed at fundraising. This financial support proved instrumental in aiding fellow cinema stars facing a dearth of opportunities, setting a compelling example of responsible leadership. His adept leadership not only revitalised the organisation but also rescued it from substantial debts. His innovative approach, notably the organisation of ‘star night shows,’ became legendary in the Tamil film industry.
Helped Launch Actor Vijay
Vijayakanth played a pivotal role in shaping Vijay’s early film career. Vijay’s film ‘Vetri,’ was in a Vijayakanth-starrer directed by Vijay’s father, SA Chandrasekhar. Facing a setback with his initial lead role in ‘Naalaiya Theerpu,’ Vijay’s father sought Vijayakanth’s support. The ensuing collaboration in ‘Sendhoorapandi’ proved a blockbuster, reviving Vijay’s career. Remarkably, Vijayakanth acted in the film without remuneration, as a mark of showing his gratitude to SAC with whom he had a successful stint.
எஸ்.ஏ.சந்திரசேகர் இயக்கத்தில் 1993 ஆம் ஆண்டு வெளியான படம் செந்தூர பாண்டி. விஜய்யின் வளர்ச்சிக்காக அப்படத்தில் முக்கிய கதாபாத்திரத்தில் நடித்தார் விஜயகாந்த்.
தனது வெற்றிக்கு காரணமான இயக்குனர்களில் எஸ்.ஏ.சி.யும் ஒருவர் என்பதால், செந்தூரபாண்டி படத்திற்கு சம்பளம் வாங்கவில்லை… pic.twitter.com/vaOUXcPGUY
— Blue Sattai Maran (@tamiltalkies) December 29, 2023
Like Vijya, he had catapulted numerous talents to stardom. He played a pivotal role in launching and nurturing the careers of actors like Mansoor Ali Khan, Sarathkumar, Arun Pandian, and others, transforming them from emerging talents to established stars.
Condemned Vairamuthu For His Controversial Remarks On Aandal
In 2018, Kollywood lyricist Vairamuthu made disgusting and controversial remarks on Vaishnavite poet-saint calling her a “devadasi”. Vijayakanth was probably the only politician and cinema star to condemn these remarks. He said he condemned Vairamuthu with regard to the Aandal issue. He also said that Vairamuthu should come to Srivilliputhur shrine and apologise. He also extended his support to the Jeeyar who was on a hunger strike then.
Never Took Remuneration For Many Films
Vijayakanth displayed a remarkable approach to remuneration throughout his career. Unconcerned about immediate payment, he often opted to receive compensation post the film’s success and willingly accepted pay cuts in cases of box office failure. Notably, the actor has generously foregone charges for cameo or supporting roles in films belonging to friends. His flexible and generous stance towards remuneration underscores his commitment to the art of cinema and his collaborative spirit within the industry.
No Minority Wing In DMDK
Transitioning from a cinematic icon to a political force, Vijayakanth’s DMDK became synonymous with his leadership qualities. His party, many are unaware, has no minority wing, and reflected a truly secular and non-casteist ideology, embracing the concept of an Indian Tamil. By launching the DMDK which stood for Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (National Progressive Dravidian Federation) Vijayakanth successfully bridged the seemingly opposing ideologies of nationalism and Dravidianism, creating a unique blend within his political sphere.
Called For Dr APJ Kalam’s Birthday To Be Celebrated As National Students Day
Captain Vijayakanth garnered widespread praise for paying his last respects to former President APJ Abdul Kalam in Rameswaram. Photos of him shedding tears went viral, earning admiration from many youngsters. Vijayakanth sent a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the celebration of Dr. Kalam’s birthday as National Students Day. It is now a special day celebrated every year and that Vijayakanth actually had a role to play in it went unnoticed.
The PV Sindhu Connection
Star shuttler PV Sindhu had a notable Chennai connection through her role as captain for the Chennai Smashers in the Indian Premier Badminton League. The team was owned for 4 years by Vijayakanth’s son, Vijay Prabhakaran, who was also Sindhu’s main sponsor and close friend.
True Tamizhan Despite Being A Telugu
Vijayakanth though was born in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, his ancestry is Telugu. His was born into a Naidu family. However, Vijayakanth’s commitment to the Tamil cause was exemplified by his participation in the anti-Hindi imposition protests. His decision to exclusively act in Tamil films showcased a deep-rooted love for his language and culture, making him the only actor of his time to make such a bold stand.
He Never Allied With DMK
Throughout his life, Vijayakanth remained a bitter critic of the DMK and resisted attempts by them to join his alliance. Karunanidhi badly wanted him to be an ally of the DMK for the 2016 Assembly elections but Vijayakanth stood his ground.
The Annamalai Connection With Vijayakanth
During his stint at IIM Lucknow, Annamalai in an interview a few months ago, revealed that he did his internship with Vijayakanth’s DMDK for about 3 months. Interestingly, in July 2023, Vijayakanth also announced that the DMDK would participate in the En Mann En Makkal padayatra launched by Annamalai.