‘Don’t see a more humane political leader than him’: Union minister Nirmala Sitharaman on death of actor-turned-politician Vijayakanth

Sitharaman was accompanied by Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party leader K Annamalai and other senior leaders, including Pon Radhakrishnan. Annamalai said, “The BJP will stand beside the millions of cadres and fans of Vijayakanth who are mourning his loss.”

Meanwhile, Sitharaman said, “Besides expressing his condolences on Twitter (X) upon hearing about the demise of Captain, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave me a clear guidance to come here and meet Captain’s family and take part in this mourning on behalf of the Union government.”

She said on behalf of the Prime Minister she has placed a wreath. Praising the generosity of Vijayakanth and remembering how he would not allow anyone to leave his house without having food, Sitharaman said Vijayakanth was a kind hearted person who couldn’t bear to see anyone suffer.

“He tried hard to ensure people around him also get whatever luxuries or facilities he gets. I have seen his interviews where he says that he started a system where whatever food is offered to him is also given to his other team members to ensure there is no disparity and everyone is equal. In politics, we don’t see a more humane political leader than him,” Sitharaman said, adding that she is at a loss for words and unable to explain her feelings.

The Union Minister said despite difficulties, millions of followers of Captain have been coming to catch one last glimpse of their leader and added that she expresses her condolences even to them.

“We have lost a leader who spent money from his own pocket for the welfare of the public. I express my deepest condolences to Captain’s family, his cadres. The media have been showing how the state lost a great leader and this has to reach the public. The people should know that there existed a humane political leader called Vijayakanth,” she said.

Haasan said Vijayakanth maintained his relationship with him the same way both before and after attaining the superstar status.

“The thing I liked about him was as much as there was humility there would be righteous anger. I am a fan of his anger and I believe that’s the reason why he batted for public service. Losing honest people like him feels somewhat lonely for people like me. But, with a belief that a lot of his fans would come up like him, I am leaving by bidding a farewell to my good friend,” Haasan said.

The final rites of Vijayakanth is expected to take place at 4:45 pm at his party office in Chennai’s Koyambedu.