On 14 April 2025, DMDK General Secretary Premalatha Vijayakanth paid an emotional tribute to her late husband, actor-turned-politician ‘Captain’ Vijayakanth, highlighting the special friendship he shared with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking in a heartfelt video message shared on X, she reflected on the deep personal connection between the two leaders, describing it as a relationship grounded in genuine respect, warmth, and affection — one that transcended politics.
Premalatha recalled that Prime Minister Modi always considered Vijayakanth not just as a political ally but as a dear friend and elder brother, often affectionately calling him the “Lion of Tamil Nadu.”
She shared, “Captain Vijayakanth was not just a towering figure in Tamil cinema and politics, but a man who earned the love and respect of many, including our Prime Minister. Narendra Modi ji always saw him as more than a political colleague. He would fondly call him the ‘Lion of Tamil Nadu’ and check on him like an elder brother during his illness. Their bond was built on true affection and mutual respect – it was a friendship that went beyond politics.”
Sharing her memories of the bond between her husband, Captain Vijayakant, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in an emotional video, Premalatha Vijayakant said, “Modiji used to call Captain the Lion of Tamil Nadu. Both of them were very good friends. Whenever it was Captain’s birthday, he by himself would call and wish Captain personally. Every time on his birthday, just like that. When Captain was a little bit sick, Modi ji himself asked him about his health issues and all. He spoke to me and said, ‘If you need any help all over the world, we can help you.’ Then he told me, ‘If you need anything, just call me and ask. I’m like your elder brother, I will help you.’ Those words I can’t forget in my lifetime. We used to talk everything very freely to him. We used to discuss many things for the people. At that time, he was very humble. He didn’t behave like a prime minister, he was like a brother to us. Modi ji is like a brother. One day in Trichy, there was a huge gathering and Modi ji spoke about Captain. He talked about the good relationship between Captain and Modi ji. He even wrote a great letter to Captain. In that letter, he explained everything about their relationship. That was a great honor for us. We will never forget in our lifetime. When Modi ji was taking oath as the prime minister in the central hall. He called all the NDA partners to the hall. We were there, and in that hall, Modiji said only two names: Captain Vijayakanth and Premalatha Vijayakanth. He said they worked very hard for the success of the NDA Alliance. That was a very great honor. After that, Modi ji gave the honorable Padma Bhushan award to Captain. I went to Delhi to receive the award on behalf of Captain. That day, I will never forget in my life. I received the award from the president, and the prime minister was there. I had a little time to speak with them. It was a great honor for Captain after his death. The award we received from Modi ji and the central government. We used to admire Modi ji for many things because he is the Prime Minister of India but he showed himself through simplicity and humanity. He is a great leader. Prime Minister also came from a small family, but he achieved great things. He is still very humble, with great humanity and simplicity. That is what makes Modi ji take all the people’s hearts.”
Captain Vijayakanth was not just a towering figure in Tamil cinema and politics, but a man who earned the love and respect of many, including our Prime Minister. Narendra Modi ji always saw him as more than a political colleague. He would fondly call him the ‘Lion of Tamil Nadu’… pic.twitter.com/yL12rjgAkQ
— Premallatha Vijayakant (@PremallathaDmdk) April 14, 2025
Vijayakanth, the founder of the Desiya Murpokku Dravida Kazhagam (DMDK), passed away on 28 December 2023, at the age of 71 due to age-related health issues. Known for his impactful contributions to Tamil cinema and his bold foray into politics, he was posthumously awarded the Padma Bhushan — an honor Premalatha said reflected the deep respect and affection Modi held for him.
She also shared insights into the Prime Minister’s character during their private interactions, describing him as humble and grounded. Premalatha acknowledged that DMDK had parted ways with the BJP to ally with the AIADMK, while PMK chose to partner with the BJP. However, she emphasized that these realignments never affected the personal bond between Vijayakanth and the Prime Minister.
“Our admiration for Modiji was always sincere. He’s a leader who came from humble beginnings and rose to the highest office, staying true to his roots. That’s why people connect with him,” she concluded.
Her message resonated deeply with supporters of both Vijayakanth and the BJP, shedding light on the powerful human stories that often exist behind political headlines, and the enduring friendships that rise above party lines.
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