<p>As the India-headquartered multinational conglomerate Essel Group celebrated its centenary event in Chennai, Kamal Haasan, widely regarded as one of the greatest and most versatile artists in Indian cinema, hailed the Essel growth story and the determination and vision of Essel Group Chairman Dr. Subhash Chandra. "In many ways, the story of Essel Group and Journey of India are similar: transforming, adapting, reinventing, across generations. It is truly an honor to be a part of your history. Our owning up your history makes us proud. I know what sweat and toil must have been behind it," Haasan, also a Parliamentarian, said at the Essel100 event hosted by Zee Tamil, Zee Thirai and Tamil Zee 5.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/essel-group-completes-100-years-marks-century-long-journey-from-grain-trading-business-to-global-conglomerate-1779335073369"><strong>Essel Group completes 100 years, marks century-long journey from grain trading business to global conglomerate</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Congratulating the Essel group on its 100-year milestone and commenting on the journey so far, Kamal Haasan said: carrying an institution through a century of political, economic, technological change, across generations, required knowing what to preserve and what to reinvent. Commending Dr. Subhash Chandra and his family's efforts for nurturing and growing this venture, Kamal Haasan appreciated that now the fifth and sixth generations are taking forward the business that was started in 1926.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/essel-group-celebrates-100-years-of-legacy-and-growth-as-eminent-personalities-gather-in-mumbai-1785643791986"><strong>Essel Group celebrates 100 years of legacy and growth as eminent personalities gather in Mumbai</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Dr. Subhash Chandra is the Chairman and visionary leader who built and expanded the Essel Group into a global conglomerate. He transformed his family's modest pre-independence commodity trading enterprise—originally founded in 1926—into a massive multi-sector business empire spanning media, packaging, and infrastructure, notably launchinhttps://www.wionews.com/india-news/100-years-of-essel-group-dr-subhash-chandra-shares-origin-story-of-the-name-essel-1779347038565g India's first private satellite TV channel, Zee TV, in 1992, followed by multiple TV channels across genres and languages.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/100-years-of-essel-group-dr-subhash-chandra-shares-origin-story-of-the-name-essel-1779347038565"><strong>100 Years of Essel Group: Dr Subhash Chandra shares origin story of the name 'Essel'</strong></a></p><h2>Addressing the gathering, Essel Group’s Chairman</h2><p>Dr. Subhash Chandra said it was a matter of great pride that the group had successfully navigated several challenges and transformations over the years and evolved into a global media and entertainment organisation. Sharing his entrepreneurial journey, he recalled that his dream venture was started in the year 1970 with an investment of just ₹17 and that it has now grown into a media empire reaching millions of people.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/100-years-of-essel-group-a-century-of-vision-innovation-and-inspiring-generations-1779270124809"><strong> 100 Years of Essel Group: A century of vision, innovation and inspiring generations</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Touching upon Zee's affinity towards Tamil Nadu and the Tamil language, Dr. Chandra highlighted the lesser-known fact that Tamil was the second language in which Zee TV began brodcasting in, in the mid-1990s. "Tamil was our second language... While the exclusive Tamil TV channel Zee Tamil was launched on 12th October 2008, we actually began Tamil broadcasts on the main Hindi channel Zee TV in the year 1995... Back then, there was a 30-minute Tamil language band on the predominantly Hindi-language Zee TV," recalled Dr. Chandra. We value and respect Tamil culture, ethos and aspirations. We respect it in our storytelling also. We would never compromise on the Tamil culture and traditions. That is why people of Tamil Nadu love us, he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Essel100 celebration hosted at the ITC Grand Chola in Chennai brought together leading stars from the Tamil film and television industries, along with creators, writers, directors, producers, technicians and industry personalities. </p>

Actor Kamal Haasan congratulated the Essel group on its 100-year milestone. Commending Dr. Subhash Chandra and his family's efforts for nurturing and growing this venture, he appreciated that now the fifth and sixth generation are taking forward the business.


As the India-headquartered multinational conglomerate Essel Group celebrated its centenary event in Chennai, Kamal Haasan, widely regarded as one of the greatest and most versatile artists in Indian cinema, hailed the Essel growth story and the determination and vision of Essel Group Chairman Dr. Subhash Chandra. "In many ways, the story of Essel Group and Journey of India are similar: transforming, adapting, reinventing, across generations. It is truly an honor to be a part of your history. Our owning up your history makes us proud. I know what sweat and toil must have been behind it," Haasan, also a Parliamentarian, said at the Essel100 event hosted by Zee Tamil, Zee Thirai and Tamil Zee 5. Also Read: Essel Group completes 100 years, marks century-long journey from grain trading business to global conglomerate Congratulating the Essel group on its 100-year milestone and commenting on the journey so far, Kamal Haasan said: carrying an institution through a century of political, economic, technological change, across generations, required knowing what to preserve and what to reinvent. Commending Dr. Subhash Chandra and his family's efforts for nurturing and growing this venture, Kamal Haasan appreciated that now the fifth and sixth generations are taking forward the business that was started in 1926. Also Read: Essel Group celebrates 100 years of legacy and growth as eminent personalities gather in Mumbai Dr. Subhash Chandra is the Chairman and visionary leader who built and expanded the Essel Group into a global conglomerate. He transformed his family's modest pre-independence commodity trading enterprise—originally founded in 1926—into a massive multi-sector business empire spanning media, packaging, and infrastructure, notably launchinhttps://www.wionews.com/india-news/100-years-of-essel-group-dr-subhash-chandra-shares-origin-story-of-the-name-essel-1779347038565g India's first private satellite TV channel, Zee TV, in 1992, followed by multiple TV channels across genres and languages. Also Read: 100 Years of Essel Group: Dr Subhash Chandra shares origin story of the name 'Essel' Addressing the gathering, Essel Group’s Chairman Dr. Subhash Chandra said it was a matter of great pride that the group had successfully navigated several challenges and transformations over the years and evolved into a global media and entertainment organisation. Sharing his entrepreneurial journey, he recalled that his dream venture was started in the year 1970 with an investment of just ₹17 and that it has now grown into a media empire reaching millions of people. Also Read: 100 Years of Essel Group: A century of vision, innovation and inspiring generations Touching upon Zee's affinity towards Tamil Nadu and the Tamil language, Dr. Chandra highlighted the lesser-known fact that Tamil was the second language in which Zee TV began brodcasting in, in the mid-1990s. "Tamil was our second language... While the exclusive Tamil TV channel Zee Tamil was launched on 12th October 2008, we actually began Tamil broadcasts on the main Hindi channel Zee TV in the year 1995... Back then, there was a 30-minute Tamil language band on the predominantly Hindi-language Zee TV," recalled Dr. Chandra. We value and respect Tamil culture, ethos and aspirations. We respect it in our storytelling also. We would never compromise on the Tamil culture and traditions. That is why people of Tamil Nadu love us, he added.

<p>Actor Kamal Haasan congratulated the Essel Group on its 100-year milestone. Commending Dr. Subhash Chandra and his family's efforts in nurturing and growing this venture, he appreciated that the fifth and sixth generations are taking the business forward.<br>&nbsp;</p>

100-yr story of Essel group and journey of India are similar: Kamal Haasan at Essel100

<p>Before youth protesters could celebrate their major victory after days of demonstrations at Jantar Mantar and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, actor-politician Kamal Haasan had stepped forward, and reacted to the government's acknowledgement of the rights of the youth over the 2026 NEET paper leak.&nbsp;</p><h2>Kamal Haasan praises BJP government</h2><p>On July 25 (Saturday), while taking to X, the Tamil superstar shared his reaction and welcomed the government's willingness to engage in dialogue amid the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)-led students' protest.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-reacts-to-cjp-protests-says-the-country-must-now-do-its-duty-1784791390971"><strong>Kamal Haasan reacts to CJP protests, says 'the country must now do its duty'</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>His post read, "Glad to see dialogue replacing confrontation. Dissent deserves dialogue. This is democracy in action. Pellet guns, electric shock batons and nail-studded lathis have no place in the land of Bapu. Equally, attacks on security personnel and public property must be examined fairly. Accountability cannot be selective."</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Glad to see dialogue replacing confrontation. Dissent deserves dialogue. This is democracy in action.<br><br>Pellet guns, electric shock batons and nail-studded lathis have no place in the land of Bapu. <br><br>Equally, attacks on security personnel and public property must be examined…</p>&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://x.com/ikamalhaasan/status/2080897683481596084?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>The <i>Chachi 420 </i>actor further wrote, “This moment and opportunity is bigger than paper leaks. I urge a National Commission on Education and Examination Reform, with a three-month roadmap to restore trust in examinations, reduce academic stress and modernise education — one that also hears Tamil Nadu's voice, where young Anitha's death first showed the human cost of a single high-stakes test.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/rajinikanth-and-kamal-haasan-movies-together-from-apoorva-raagangal-to-ninaithale-inikkum-1771677038110"><strong>KH vs RK: Revisiting Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan’s films together</strong></a></p><h2>Kamal Haasan backs students' protest</h2><p>Coming in support of the students and backing them in their ongoing protests, Haasan wrote on his social media, "We should have listened when one child cried. Instead, we waited until far too many of our children died. A system where coaching replaces learning, anxiety replaces curiosity, and criminality replaces merit is rotten. A nation has failed when its children are met with barricades and batons instead of answers.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanth-and-kamal-haasan-reunite-on-screen-first-promo-of-kh-x-rk-film-breaks-the-internet-1771661773191"><strong>Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan reunite on screen! First promo of KH x RK film breaks the internet</strong></a></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We should have listened when one child cried.<br><br>Instead, we waited until far too many of our children died.<br><br>A system where coaching replaces learning, anxiety replaces curiosity, and criminality replaces merit is rotten.<br><br>A nation has failed when its children are met with…</p>&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://x.com/ikamalhaasan/status/2080165550769176737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>About the CJP protest</h2><p>The CJP protest began in June 2026 over the 2026 NEET paper leak and alleged irregularities in the examination system. Several students, activists and celebrities came forward, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and a complete overhaul of the examination system following major paper leaks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/priyanka-chopra-vir-das-and-other-celebrities-react-as-dharmendra-pradhan-resigns-as-education-minister-1784973948916"><strong>Celebrities react as Dharmendra Pradhan resigns as Education Ministe</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Amid major controversy and heated arguments, Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan officially submitted his resignation on July 25 (Saturday). This prompted several stars, including Priyanka Chopra, Prakash Raj, Vir Das, Vijay Varma and many others, to speak out on the major victory of the youth.</p>

Kamal Haasan praises the BJP government for acknowledging the rights of the youth over the 2026 NEET paper leak and days-long protests at Jantar Mantar.

Before youth protesters could celebrate their major victory after days of demonstrations at Jantar Mantar and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, actor-politician Kamal Haasan had stepped forward, and reacted to the government's acknowledgement of the rights of the youth over the 2026 NEET paper leak. Kamal Haasan praises BJP government On July 25 (Saturday), while taking to X, the Tamil superstar shared his reaction and welcomed the government's willingness to engage in dialogue amid the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)-led students' protest. Also Read: Kamal Haasan reacts to CJP protests, says 'the country must now do its duty' His post read, "Glad to see dialogue replacing confrontation. Dissent deserves dialogue. This is democracy in action. Pellet guns, electric shock batons and nail-studded lathis have no place in the land of Bapu. Equally, attacks on security personnel and public property must be examined fairly. Accountability cannot be selective."

<p>Kamal Haasan reacts to the government acknowledging the rights of the youth over the 2026 NEET paper leak and days-long protests at Jantar Mantar. Read to more.</p>

Kamal Haasan opens up about youth protests, says 'Glad to see dialogue replacing confrontation'

<p>Several Indian celebrities have broken their silence on the CJP-led student protests, including Salman Khan and Diljit Dosanjh, among others, following heavy police crackdowns at Jantar Mantar and Parliament marches. Veteran actor Kamal Haasan is the latest to join the list of film industry figures showing support for the NEET protest.</p><h2>Kamal Haasan shares note amid NEET protest</h2><p>Taking to his X page, Kamal Haasan penned, “We should have listened when one child cried. Instead,&nbsp;</p><p>We waited until far too many of our children died.” Expressing his disappointment with the system, the actor added, “A system where coaching replaces learning, anxiety replaces curiosity, and criminality replaces merit is rotten. A nation has failed when its children are met with barricades and batons instead of answers.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/reminder-to-pause-listen-and-choose-dulquer-salmaan-aditi-rao-hydari-speaks-out-imran-khan-joins-cjp-protest-in-mumbai-1784773893865"><strong>NEET protest: Dulquer Salmaan speaks out, Imran Khan joins CJP march in Mumbai</strong></a></p>

<p>He further wrote, "To the children of India: You are the best of us. You have done your duty. It is now time for the country to do its duty by you. May your dreams forever be bigger than our failures.” The veteran actor also requested Sonam Wangchuk, who has been on a fast for over 3 weeks, to end his fast, adding, “The nation will need your conscience for the journey ahead.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/driven-and-courageous-salman-khan-backs-student-protests-urges-education-system-reforms-without-political-interference-1784745190273"><strong>Salman backs student protests, urges reforms without political interference</strong></a></p><h2>Celebrities supporting student protest</h2><p>Numerous film and music celebrities have expressed solidarity with the student-led "Sansad Chalo" march and subsequent protests in New Delhi demanding accountability over alleged NEET exam irregularities and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href=" R. Madhavan breaks silence on protest: 'student deserves a system that is fair'"><strong>R. Madhavan breaks silence on protest: 'student deserves a system that is fair'</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Celebrities including Prakash Raj, Shabana Azmi, Omi Vaidya, Zeenat Aman, Riteish Deshmukh, Vir Das, Sonakshi Sinha, Diljit Dosanjh, and several others voiced their support on social media. Shabana Azmi, Naseeruddin Shah.</p><h2>All about the CJP protest</h2><p>The Cockroach Janata Party (CJP)-led protests began over the 2026 NEET paper leak and irregularities in public examinations in June. As a result, several students and activists came forward, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and a complete overhaul of the examination system following major paper leaks.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/bigg-boss-17-and-dhurandhar-fame-ayesha-khan-detained-by-police-during-protest-in-mumbai-1784725435793"><strong>Dhurandhar fame Ayesha Khan detained by police during protest in Mumbai</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This led Sonam Wangchuk, a celebrated Indian engineer, innovator, education reformer, and environmentalist from Ladakh, to sit on a hunger strike, which he began on June 28 and continued for over three weeks. On July 18, Sonam Wangchuk was forcibly taken to a hospital over Jantar Mantar. However, the CJP organised a march that drew thousands of students and activists from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament.&nbsp;</p>

Veteran actor Kamal Haasan penned an emotional note amid the NEET protests, highlighting the concerns raised by students and urging the country to fulfil its duty towards its children. Read on to know more.

Several Indian celebrities have broken their silence on the CJP-led student protests, including Salman Khan and Diljit Dosanjh, among others, following heavy police crackdowns at Jantar Mantar and Parliament marches. Veteran actor Kamal Haasan is the latest to join the list of film industry figures showing support for the NEET protest. Kamal Haasan shares note amid NEET protest Taking to his X page, Kamal Haasan penned, “We should have listened when one child cried. Instead, We waited until far too many of our children died.” Expressing his disappointment with the system, the actor added, “A system where coaching replaces learning, anxiety replaces curiosity, and criminality replaces merit is rotten. A nation has failed when its children are met with barricades and batons instead of answers.” Also Read: NEET protest: Dulquer Salmaan speaks out, Imran Khan joins CJP march in Mumbai

<p>Veteran actor Kamal Haasan penned an emotional note amid the NEET protests, highlighting the concerns raised by students and urging the country to fulfil its duty towards its children. Read on to know more.</p>

Kamal Haasan reacts to CJP protests, says 'the country must now do its duty'

<p>Beyond Tamil cinema, Kamal Haasan has been regarded as one of the biggest superstars of Indian cinema. He has worked in several movies across languages, including Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi, and Kannada. He made his Hindi debut in 1974 with K. Balachander’s Aaina, a remake of the director’s Tamil film Arangetram (1973).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With this, the actor went on to star in Ek Duuje Ke Liye in 1981, opposite Rati Agnihotri. While the movie was a hit and earned Haasan much-acclaimed success, the actor was never very interested in the world of Bollywood and soon distanced himself from Hindi cinema.</p><h3>What discouraged him from continuing with Hindi films?</h3><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking about his choice at the India Today South Conclave in 2017, the actor explained&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Calling himself the poor cousin of Hindi cinema, the actor shared in the interview, “The times… those times were like that. I was a poorer cousin of Hindi cinema. I had to do my own laundry and stuff like that. They were spoilt and rich. They could do six films at a time. I thought that was very defeating. That was one of the reasons.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read</strong>: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/baahubali-3-in-the-works-prabhas-rana-daggubati-and-anushka-shetty-fuel-speculation-1782457597534">Baahubali 3 in the works? Prabhas, Rana and Anushka fuel speculation</a></p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DDlCV3Ts-F9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DDlCV3Ts-F9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DDlCV3Ts-F9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<p>The other reason for his distance was black money and the industry’s underworld connections.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“[Bollywood had] Too many underworld connections. I didn’t want to stay there, either to oppose it or to succumb to the threat. I was one of the actors to decide that I would not have anything to do with black money. I’m quite happy. I drove in a car. It is quite possible. Someone else did it earlier: cameraman Vincent. He never touched black money. It was long before any government threatened him to not keep black money. My brother and I made that call,” he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/welcome-to-the-jungle-review-akshay-kumar-s-star-studded-comedy-delivers-laughs-but-not-much-logic-1782450912146">Welcome To The Jungle review: Akshay Kumar's star-studded comedy delivers laughs</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India's financial capital Mumbai, which is known for Bollywood, has long been associated with underworld connections. In the 90s, this reached a new level when Dawood Ibrahim and Chhota Rajan emerged. Time and again, the film industry and its connection with D-Company have drawn attention.</p><h3>Kamal Haasan's work in Hindi cinema</h3><p>Haasan has been hailed as one of Indian cinema's most respected actors. After building his fan base in South Indian cinema, the actor worked in Hindi cinema for a limited period, delivering several hits.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After his film Ek Duuje Ke Liye (1981) became a superhit, he went on to star in movies such as Sanam Teri Kasam (1982), Yeh To Kamaal Ho Gaya (1982), Zara Si Zindagi (1983), and Balu Mahendra’s Sadma (1983), which remains one of the biggest hits of his career.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The movie, a remake of Moondram Pirai (1982), earned him his first National Film Award for Best Actor. While he has never stayed completely away from Hindi cinema, he has also never been tied down to it.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In 1997, he returned with Chachi 420.</p>

Kamal Haasan has worked across languages and proven his talent in each one. But do you know why he stepped back from Hindi cinema even after delivering superhits?

Beyond Tamil cinema, Kamal Haasan has been regarded as one of the biggest superstars of Indian cinema. He has worked in several movies across languages, including Tamil, Malayalam, Hindi, and Kannada. He made his Hindi debut in 1974 with K. Balachander’s Aaina, a remake of the director’s Tamil film Arangetram (1973). With this, the actor went on to star in Ek Duuje Ke Liye in 1981, opposite Rati Agnihotri. While the movie was a hit and earned Haasan much-acclaimed success, the actor was never very interested in the world of Bollywood and soon distanced himself from Hindi cinema. What discouraged him from continuing with Hindi films? Speaking about his choice at the India Today South Conclave in 2017, the actor explained Calling himself the poor cousin of Hindi cinema, the actor shared in the interview, “The times… those times were like that. I was a poorer cousin of Hindi cinema. I had to do my own laundry and stuff like that. They were spoilt and rich. They could do six films at a time. I thought that was very defeating. That was one of the reasons.” Also read: Baahubali 3 in the works? Prabhas, Rana and Anushka fuel speculation

<p>Kamal Haasan has worked across languages and proven his talent in each one. But do you know why he stepped back from Hindi cinema even after delivering superhits?</p>

Why Kamal Haasan walked away from Bollywood: 'Too many underworld connections...'

<p>The makers of Rajinikanth's much-anticipated <i>Dharman </i>revealed the first look of the film on Wednesday. This update comes after years of discussions about the director, and now it is confirmed that it will be helmed by Ashwath Marimuthu.</p><h2>Rajnikanth on working with Kamal Haasan</h2><p>During the title launch event, Rajinikanth recalled how the collaboration with Kamal Haasan had been in the works for a long time. "When this office was inaugurated, Kamal sir told me, ‘I’ve opened a big office now. You must do a film for this banner.’ After that, both of us got busy," Rajnikanth said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He further added, "When we spoke the last time, I could feel through his tone that he was serious about making this happen. I agreed immediately."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/thalaivar-173-is-now-dharman-rajinikanth-s-first-look-unveiled-from-ashwath-marimuthu-kamal-haasan-s-next-film-1782282128394"><strong>Thalaivar 173 is now Dharman: Rajinikanth's FIRST look unveiled from Ashwath Marimuthu, Kamal Haasan's next film</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZ9KiBwTnbB/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZ9KiBwTnbB/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DZ9KiBwTnbB/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajnikanth-reveals-not-ramya-krishnan-but-this-bollywood-diva-was-the-first-choice-for-1999-film-padayappa-1765360443820"><strong>Rajnikanth reveals NOT Ramya Krishnan, but THIS Bollywood diva was the first choice for 1999 film Padayappa</strong></a></p><h2>Why the film changed multiple directors</h2><p>While discussing the film's development process, Rajinikanth revealed that several filmmakers were considered at different stages before the makers ultimately settled on Ashwath Marimuthu.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"First, we wanted to do a film with Ravikumar. It didn’t work out, so we finalised Sundar C. But he had other projects that were delayed, so he told us he’s stepping away. Then we decided on Cibi Chakravarthi," he revealed. "The story is very good, but it’s a sensitive subject. It’s about a nuclear scientist…about nuclear weapons. Shooting was to take place in Afghanistan and Russia. It’s a nice subject, but very sensitive and time-consuming. So, we postponed the project and finalised the film with Ashwath Marimuthu."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanth-wins-hearts-as-he-travels-economy-to-goa-for-jailer-2-shoot-watch-1761734074973"><strong>Rajinikanth wins hearts as he travels economy to Goa for Jailer 2 shoot | Watch</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGzxYz4TYNa/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGzxYz4TYNa/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DGzxYz4TYNa/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Ashwath Marimuthu (@ashwath_marimuthu)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<p><br>Rajinikanth also recounted how Kamal Haasan initially trusted him completely when it came to selecting the project. "Kamal sir called and said he wouldn’t listen to the story and asked me to take the call. But I was too tense and insisted that he hear the narration. He liked it too, and that’s how everything came together," he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/-school-dropout-kamal-haasan-admits-he-feels-proud-of-landing-a-government-job-after-being-sworn-in-rajya-sabha-1764647797689"><strong>‘School dropout’ Kamal Haasan admits he feels proud of landing a ‘government job’ after being sworn in Rajya Sabha</strong></a></p><h2>About Dharman</h2><p>Initially called Thalaivar 173, production of the film is expected to begin soon. Helmed by Marimuthu, who is known for Oh My Kadavule and Dragon, confirmed during the launch event that Rajinikanth will indeed be portraying a doctor.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The cast also features Simran and Raashi Khanna in key roles. Music will be composed by Anirudh Ravichander, and cinematography is given to Niketh Bommi, while editing will be handled by Pradeep E Ragav. And action sequences are being designed by stunt duo Anbariv.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Rajnikanth has finally addressed the conversations around the change of directors for his upcoming film Dharman, backed by Kamal Haasan. The first look of the project was released on Wednesday.

The makers of Rajinikanth's much-anticipated Dharman revealed the first look of the film on Wednesday. This update comes after years of discussions about the director, and now it is confirmed that it will be helmed by Ashwath Marimuthu. Rajnikanth on working with Kamal Haasan During the title launch event, Rajinikanth recalled how the collaboration with Kamal Haasan had been in the works for a long time. "When this office was inaugurated, Kamal sir told me, ‘I’ve opened a big office now. You must do a film for this banner.’ After that, both of us got busy," Rajnikanth said. He further added, "When we spoke the last time, I could feel through his tone that he was serious about making this happen. I agreed immediately." Also Read: Thalaivar 173 is now Dharman: Rajinikanth's FIRST look unveiled from Ashwath Marimuthu, Kamal Haasan's next film

<p>Rajnikanth has finally addressed the conversations around the change of directors for his upcoming film Dharman, backed by Kamal Haasan. The first look of the project was released on Wednesday.</p>

Dharman: Rajinikanth reveals why Kamal Haasan's film went through four directors before Ashwath Marimuthu came onboard

<p>Rajinikanth is all set to make a return to the big screen with Thalaivar 173, officially titled <i>Dharman</i>. On Wednesday, makers shared an eye-catching first look at the superstar from the film, sending fans into a frenzy. Directed by Ashwath Marimuthu, the upcoming film is backed by Kamal Haasan.</p><h2>Dharman first look</h2><p>Said to be a highly anticipated project, the film marks one of the most anticipated collaborations currently in Tamil cinema. The poster was shared on social media with a caption that translated to, "Righteousness alone will triumph!"</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajnikanth-reveals-not-ramya-krishnan-but-this-bollywood-diva-was-the-first-choice-for-1999-film-padayappa-1765360443820"><strong>Rajnikanth reveals NOT Ramya Krishnan, but THIS Bollywood diva was the first choice for 1999 film Padayappa</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In the newly released image, Rajnikanth can be seen in a striking avatar. Dressed in blue surgical scrubs with his classic swag, the superstar is seen holding a blood-stained scalpel inside what appears to be an operation theatre.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The photo also shows a lifeless body lying beneath him, introducing him as "The Deadly Doctor."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Reacting to the first look, one fan wrote, "DD - Doctor Dharman," while another added, "Woaa." However, some users are unhappy with the look as they believe it's created with AI. "Chat gpt????," commented one. "Bro AI?," said another.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanth-wins-hearts-as-he-travels-economy-to-goa-for-jailer-2-shoot-watch-1761734074973"><strong>Rajinikanth wins hearts as he travels economy to Goa for Jailer 2 shoot | Watch</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/-school-dropout-kamal-haasan-admits-he-feels-proud-of-landing-a-government-job-after-being-sworn-in-rajya-sabha-1764647797689"><strong>‘School dropout’ Kamal Haasan admits he feels proud of landing a ‘government job’ after being sworn in Rajya Sabha</strong></a></p><h2>About Dharman</h2><p>Initially called Thalaivar 173, production of the film is expected to begin soon. As per reports, the film will start on June 25. Helmed by Marimuthu, who is known for Oh My Kadavule and Dragon, confirmed during the launch event that Rajinikanth will indeed be portraying a doctor.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/8-week-ott-window-to-anti-piracy-team-kamal-haasan-meets-cm-vijay-seeks-major-reforms-in-tamil-film-industry-1778942311690"><strong> 8-week OTT window to anti-piracy team: Kamal Haasan meets CM Vijay, seeks major reforms in Tamil film industry</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The cast also features Simran and Raashi Khanna in key roles. Music will be composed by Anirudh Ravichander, and cinematography is given to Niketh Bommi, while editing will be handled by Pradeep E Ragav. And action sequences are being designed by stunt duo Anbariv.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Further details about the film, including the release date, are yet to be revealed.</p>

Rajinikanth's first look from much-awaited Thalaivar 173 out, and the film is now officially titled Dharman. Backed by Kamal Haasan, the project is directed by Ashwath Marimuthu. Read on to know more.


Rajinikanth is all set to make a return to the big screen with Thalaivar 173, officially titled Dharman. On Wednesday, makers shared an eye-catching first look at the superstar from the film, sending fans into a frenzy. Directed by Ashwath Marimuthu, the upcoming film is backed by Kamal Haasan. Dharman first look Said to be a highly anticipated project, the film marks one of the most anticipated collaborations currently in Tamil cinema. The poster was shared on social media with a caption that translated to, "Righteousness alone will triumph!" Also Read: Rajnikanth reveals NOT Ramya Krishnan, but THIS Bollywood diva was the first choice for 1999 film Padayappa In the newly released image, Rajnikanth can be seen in a striking avatar. Dressed in blue surgical scrubs with his classic swag, the superstar is seen holding a blood-stained scalpel inside what appears to be an operation theatre. The photo also shows a lifeless body lying beneath him, introducing him as "The Deadly Doctor." Reacting to the first look, one fan wrote, "DD - Doctor Dharman," while another added, "Woaa." However, some users are unhappy with the look as they believe it's created with AI. "Chat gpt????," commented one. "Bro AI?," said another. Also Read: Rajinikanth wins hearts as he travels economy to Goa for Jailer 2 shoot | Watch

<p>Rajinikanth's first look from much-awaited Thalaivar 173 out, and the film is now officially titled Dharman. Backed by Kamal Haasan, the project is directed by Ashwath Marimuthu. Read on to know more.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Thalaivar 173 is now Dharman: Rajinikanth's FIRST look unveiled from Ashwath Marimuthu, Kamal Haasan's next film

<p>Days after Kamal Haasan shared ideas for the welfare of the Tamil film industry, actor Vijay Sethupathi has opened up about his concerns regarding the same, and appealed to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay to introduce key reforms that could help the filmmakers.&nbsp;</p><h2>Vijay Sethupathi has two requests for the TN CM &nbsp;</h2><p>While attending the audio launch event of Parimala &amp; Co, directed by Pandiraj and starring Jayaram and Urvashi, Sethupathi made the remarks and backed an idea earlier proposed by Kamal Haasan regarding a dedicated OTT platform for Tamil content.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/8-week-ott-window-to-anti-piracy-team-kamal-haasan-meets-cm-vijay-seeks-major-reforms-in-tamil-film-industry-1778942311690"><strong>8-week OTT window to anti-piracy team: Kamal Haasan meets CM Vijay, seeks major reforms in Tamil film industry</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>During the event, the actor expressed that the regional entertainment industry requires stronger support systems for growth. "I have an important request for the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Vijay sir. As Kamal sir asked, it would be very good if the Tamil Nadu government started an OTT soon. OTT was such a booming market; it rose and then fell, I don’t know why. It’s creating a lot of confusion in business terms. So, it would be great if you could channel it a little bit," he said, as quoted by HT.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/-living-dead-kamal-haasan-warns-of-massive-sir-discrepancies-in-rajya-sabha-maiden-speech-1770267708340"><strong> ‘Living dead’: Kamal Haasan warns of massive SIR discrepancies in Rajya Sabha maiden speech</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The actor also highlighted the financial pressure being faced by theatre owners and producers, saying, "Secondly, theatre ticket prices have not been rising for many years. The price of everything else has gone up. So, it would be good if theatre ticket prices were to be increased. I think you should consider it a little. I’ve been thinking about this for a while now. The cost of production has gone up, but the ticket rate has remained the same for years. It’s very difficult, even though they’re managing by selling digital rights."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/-this-feels-personal-kamal-haasan-to-prakash-raj-celebrities-react-as-vijay-becomes-tamil-nadu-chief-minister-1778400899260"><strong> 'This feels personal': Kamal Haasan to Prakash Raj, celebrities react as Vijay becomes Tamil Nadu Chief Minister</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My two requests: <a href="https://t.co/rP4bIo4Hzi">https://t.co/rP4bIo4Hzi</a> <a href="https://t.co/u6ywdmd5S1">pic.twitter.com/u6ywdmd5S1</a></p>&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan/status/2055636739071553929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rajinikanth-breaks-silence-on-vijay-becoming-tamil-nadu-cm-says-friendship-with-mk-stalin-is-beyond-politics-1778997358759"><strong>Rajinikanth breaks silence on Vijay becoming Tamil Nadu CM, says friendship with MK Stalin is beyond politics</strong></a></p><h2>Kamal Haasan's requests for CM Vijay</h2><p>Sethupathi's comments come after Kamal Haasan reportedly submitted a detailed memorandum to the Tamil Nadu government seeking several reforms for the industry. Revealing his demands on X, Haasan wrote, "Today, I met in person with the Honorable Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Brother Vijay @TVKVijayHQ, and conveyed my best wishes. I have submitted to him 6 important demands, emphasizing that the Tamil Nadu government’s support and embrace are essential for the Tamil film industry, which is facing various obstacles."</p>

During an event, Vijay Sethupathi opened up about his concerns regarding the current state of the Tamil film industry and suggested two ideas to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay for supporting filmmakers. 

Days after Kamal Haasan shared ideas for the welfare of the Tamil film industry, actor Vijay Sethupathi has opened up about his concerns regarding the same, and appealed to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay to introduce key reforms that could help the filmmakers. Vijay Sethupathi has two requests for the TN CM While attending the audio launch event of Parimala & Co, directed by Pandiraj and starring Jayaram and Urvashi, Sethupathi made the remarks and backed an idea earlier proposed by Kamal Haasan regarding a dedicated OTT platform for Tamil content. Also Read: 8-week OTT window to anti-piracy team: Kamal Haasan meets CM Vijay, seeks major reforms in Tamil film industry During the event, the actor expressed that the regional entertainment industry requires stronger support systems for growth. "I have an important request for the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Vijay sir. As Kamal sir asked, it would be very good if the Tamil Nadu government started an OTT soon. OTT was such a booming market; it rose and then fell, I don’t know why. It’s creating a lot of confusion in business terms. So, it would be great if you could channel it a little bit," he said, as quoted by HT. Also Read: ‘Living dead’: Kamal Haasan warns of massive SIR discrepancies in Rajya Sabha maiden speech The actor also highlighted the financial pressure being faced by theatre owners and producers, saying, "Secondly, theatre ticket prices have not been rising for many years. The price of everything else has gone up. So, it would be good if theatre ticket prices were to be increased. I think you should consider it a little. I’ve been thinking about this for a while now. The cost of production has gone up, but the ticket rate has remained the same for years. It’s very difficult, even though they’re managing by selling digital rights." Also Read: 'This feels personal': Kamal Haasan to Prakash Raj, celebrities react as Vijay becomes Tamil Nadu Chief Minister

<p>During an event, Vijay Sethupathi opened up about his concerns regarding the current state of the Tamil film industry and suggested two ideas to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay for supporting filmmakers.&nbsp;</p>

Vijay Sethupathi seeks two major changes from CM Vijay for Tamil film industry: 'It would be very good if...'

<p>Amid a West Asia crisis, Kamal Haasan has been continuously urging people to adopt measures to save foreign exchange and conserve energy. Recently, the actor, who is Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) president and a Rajya Sabha MP, again shared a video supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for energy conservation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Haasan, who never shies away from sharing his political views, emphasized the importance of conserving energy. He said this is a time when we must rise above politics and come together for the country.</p><h2>Kamal Haasan Supports PM Modi’s Fuel-Saving Call</h2><p>On Friday, the actor posted a video on Instagram supporting PM Modi and urging fellow citizens to come together to reduce energy consumption.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“My dear fellow countrymen, today I speak to you as an Indian deeply concerned by the impact of the Iran War,” Haasan said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“Today, I speak to you as an Indian deeply concerned by the impact of the Iran war. Oil prices are rising, sea trade routes are blocked, the energy that powers our kitchen and homes, fertilises and nourishes our fields and crops, fuel that drives our industries and vehicles, all have gotten more expensive. In response, more than 60 countries have already imposed energy-saving rules. We recently heard Singapore’s Prime Minister asking his people to prepare for tough times ahead. We are a much larger country,” he added.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYocdaST_Gq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYocdaST_Gq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DYocdaST_Gq/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<p>Haasan further said this is a time when politicians must rise above party lines and, setting aside differences, come together to save the country.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“In moments like this, national responsibility must rise above party politics. As Vajpayee ji famously said, governments will come and go, but the nation shall remain,” he added.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DYW7_c7E05q/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DYW7_c7E05q/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DYW7_c7E05q/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

<h2>Kamal Haasan hailed PM Modi's government push</h2><p>As the US-Iran war severely disrupts the Strait of Hormuz and worsens the global energy crisis, PM Modi urged citizens to adopt lifestyle changes to cut down on petrol and diesel consumption, avoid unnecessary domestic business travel, use public transport, and more.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“In moments like this, national responsibility must rise above party politics. As Mr Vajpayee ji famously said, governments will come and go, but the nation shall remain. During the 1962 China war, we donated gold from our homes to support our soldiers fighting at the border. In 1965, when India did not have enough food grains, Lal Bahadur Shastri ji asked citizens to skip one meal a week for the whole nation,” he said, adding, “Today, India does not need such sacrifice. Surely, we must do this for our country when our parents did much more.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier, Haasan shared a post as he urged film industry to reduce production expenses. Recently, he opted to travel on a commercial economy flight instead of a charter jet for Kalki 2 shoot.</p>

Kamal Haasan shared a video urging Indian citizens to cut down on energy use and focus on conservation amid the crisis in West Asia, saying it is time for national unity.

Amid a West Asia crisis, Kamal Haasan has been continuously urging people to adopt measures to save foreign exchange and conserve energy. Recently, the actor, who is Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) president and a Rajya Sabha MP, again shared a video supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for energy conservation. Haasan, who never shies away from sharing his political views, emphasized the importance of conserving energy. He said this is a time when we must rise above politics and come together for the country. Kamal Haasan Supports PM Modi’s Fuel-Saving Call On Friday, the actor posted a video on Instagram supporting PM Modi and urging fellow citizens to come together to reduce energy consumption. “My dear fellow countrymen, today I speak to you as an Indian deeply concerned by the impact of the Iran War,” Haasan said. “Today, I speak to you as an Indian deeply concerned by the impact of the Iran war. Oil prices are rising, sea trade routes are blocked, the energy that powers our kitchen and homes, fertilises and nourishes our fields and crops, fuel that drives our industries and vehicles, all have gotten more expensive. In response, more than 60 countries have already imposed energy-saving rules. We recently heard Singapore’s Prime Minister asking his people to prepare for tough times ahead. We are a much larger country,” he added.

<p>Kamal Haasan shared a video urging Indian citizens to cut down on energy use and focus on conservation amid the crisis in West Asia, saying it is time for national unity.</p>

'National responsibility above party politics:' Kamal Haasan backs PM Modi’s energy conservation call

<p>Actor Kamal Haasan has once again sparked a conversation online in the film industry and this time for opting for a cheaper mode of travel while heading for the shoot of<i> Kalki 2</i>. He was recently captured traveling on a commercial economy flight instead of using a private charter. Many believe this step is linked to his recent appeal for responsible filmmaking and reduced production expenses.</p><h2>Kamal Haasan travels on a commercial economy flight</h2><p>Photos of the actor seated inside the aircraft quickly circulated online, sparking a buzz on social media. The makers of the upcoming sequel, Vyjayanthi Movies, also applauded Haasan for his gesture, saying, "Mr. @ikamalhaasan choosing to let go of private charters and luxury travel to take an economy flight and head straight to the shoot sets, at a time when the industry is navigating tough realities, this says everything about the legend he is. A first step towards greater things to happen in cinema." "What's so great about this?," shared a netizen.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-pens-open-letter-on-rising-industry-wide-costs-amid-crises-in-west-asia-receives-support-from-a-production-house-1778910333653"><strong>Kamal Haasan pens open letter on rising industry-wide costs amid crises in West Asia, receives support from a production house</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mr. <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ikamalhaasan</a> choosing to let go of private charters and luxury travel to take an economy flight and head straight to the shoot sets, at a time when the industry is navigating tough realities, this says everything about the legend he is.<br><br>A first step towards greater things… <a href="https://t.co/1bzVYc6igg">pic.twitter.com/1bzVYc6igg</a></p>&mdash; Vyjayanthi Movies (@VyjayanthiFilms) <a href="https://twitter.com/VyjayanthiFilms/status/2056362543078355119?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Kamal Hassan's open note on economic challenges</h2><p>This update comes shortly after the actor issued an open note urging the Indian film fraternity to rethink unnecessary spending. "The burden cannot fall on those who labour the hardest. The correction we need is elsewhere: in avoidable waste, poor planning, inflated entourage culture, unnecessary foreign travel, production delays, and the growing disconnect between spending and purpose," he wrote.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-praises-cm-vijay-s-move-to-shut-down-liquor-shops-it-is-a-matter-of-pride-1778682404702"><strong>Kamal Haasan praises CM Vijay's move to shut down liquor shops</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">My appeal to our Industry.<a href="https://twitter.com/ficci_india?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ficci_india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/producers_guild?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@producers_guild</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/tfpcin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tfpcin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TFPCOffl?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TFPCOffl</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/kfpaofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kfpaofficial</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TFCCofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TFCCofficial</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/imppa_official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imppa_official</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/federation_film?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@federation_film</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/fwicemum?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@fwicemum</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aifecsocial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aifecsocial</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aicwaofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aicwaofficial</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/tfapatn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tfapatn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SouthIndianFilmChamberOfCommerce?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SouthIndianFilmChamberOfCommerce</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NorthernIndiaMotionPicturesAssociation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NorthernIndiaMotionPicturesAssociation</a>… <a href="https://t.co/24WXgYlbHN">pic.twitter.com/24WXgYlbHN</a></p>&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan/status/2055254665898742047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/-school-dropout-kamal-haasan-admits-he-feels-proud-of-landing-a-government-job-after-being-sworn-in-rajya-sabha-1764647797689"><strong> ‘School dropout’ Kamal Haasan admits he feels proud of landing a ‘government job’ after being sworn in Rajya Sabha</strong></a></p><h2>Internet reacts</h2><p>While many praised the gesture of the actor for choosing a simple mode of transport, others call it "not a big achievement." One user said, "Not the first step. Superstar Rajinikanth frequently makes headlines for his humility by choosing to travel in economy class on commercial flights, much to the surprise and delight of his co-passengers." While another added, "Nothing to glorify about common people have been doing it for a long time." "He is saving his own money now if so down to earth he should have done long time before," said one X user. "Good. Appreciate it. But Rajinikant always do this. A simplicity not by compulsion rather with lifestyle," wrote another.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/8-week-ott-window-to-anti-piracy-team-kamal-haasan-meets-cm-vijay-seeks-major-reforms-in-tamil-film-industry-1778942311690"><strong> 8-week OTT window to anti-piracy team: Kamal Haasan meets CM Vijay, seeks major reforms in Tamil film industry</strong></a></p><h2>About Kalki 2</h2><p>Directed by Nag Ashwin, <i>Kalki 2898 AD</i> starred Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone and Kamal Haasan in lead roles. The sequel is currently under production, and Haasan is expected to reprise his role as Supreme Yaskin.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Haasan is also set to collaborate with Rajinikanth and filmmaker Nelson Dilipkumar.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Kamal Haasan is recently making headlines for traveling on a commercial economy flight instead of a private charter while heading for the shoot of Kalki 2. The gesture sparks mixed reactions.

Actor Kamal Haasan has once again sparked a conversation online in the film industry and this time for opting for a cheaper mode of travel while heading for the shoot of Kalki 2. He was recently captured traveling on a commercial economy flight instead of using a private charter. Many believe this step is linked to his recent appeal for responsible filmmaking and reduced production expenses. Kamal Haasan travels on a commercial economy flight Photos of the actor seated inside the aircraft quickly circulated online, sparking a buzz on social media. The makers of the upcoming sequel, Vyjayanthi Movies, also applauded Haasan for his gesture, saying, "Mr. @ikamalhaasan choosing to let go of private charters and luxury travel to take an economy flight and head straight to the shoot sets, at a time when the industry is navigating tough realities, this says everything about the legend he is. A first step towards greater things to happen in cinema." "What's so great about this?," shared a netizen. Also Read: Kamal Haasan pens open letter on rising industry-wide costs amid crises in West Asia, receives support from a production house

<p>Kamal Haasan has been recently making headlines for traveling on a commercial economy flight instead of a private charter while heading for the shoot of Kalki 2. The gesture sparks mixed reactions.</p>

Kamal Haasan skips charter jet, flies economy for Kalki 2 shoot; sparks mixed reactions

<p>Actor-politician Kamal Haasan recently met newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, and took to his social media to share the glimpses of their meeting. He also submitted six major requests aimed at addressing the concerns of the Tamil film industry, as producers, distributors, and theatre owners are currently facing multiple challenges.</p><h2>Haasan shares glimpses of their meeting</h2><p>Haasan took to X to share the details of his meeting with CM Vijay, which happened on Saturday. "Today, I met in person with the Honorable Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Brother Vijay @TVKVijayHQ, and conveyed my best wishes," he wrote.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/-living-dead-kamal-haasan-warns-of-massive-sir-discrepancies-in-rajya-sabha-maiden-speech-1770267708340"><strong> ‘Living dead’: Kamal Haasan warns of massive SIR discrepancies in Rajya Sabha maiden speech</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The veteran actor also congratulated him on assuming office and spoke about the importance of government backing for cinema in Tamil Nadu. "He enthusiastically shared many dreams for the betterment of Tamil Nadu. The humility and affection he displayed during the meeting filled me with pride," the actor further added.</p><h2>Haasan submits six demands to CM Vijay</h2><p>"I have submitted to him 6 important demands, emphasizing that the Tamil Nadu government’s support and embrace are essential for the Tamil film industry, which is facing various obstacles. May goodness flourish," he further added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/vijay-and-trisha-spotted-together-amid-divorce-rumors-everything-to-know-about-their-previous-projects-and-dating-speculation-1772782152948"><strong>All about Vijay and Trisha's previous projects and off screen friendship</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hours later, Haasan also revealed his demands on X, sparking a buzz on social media. The documents posted by the actor featured:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Launch of Tamil Nadu Government OTT Platform - I request the Government of<br>Tamil Nadu to launch a state-owned OTT platform where Tamil audiences can access Tamil cinema, independent films and documentaries, at affordable and subsidized rates.</li><li>Abolition of Local Body Entertainment Tax - In view of rising production, distribution, and theatre operating costs, I request the abolition of the Local Body Entertainment Tax levied at 4%. This relief will greatly help the Tamil film industry.</li></ul><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pooja-hegde-saw-it-coming-actress-shares-throwback-jana-nayagan-moment-amid-vijay-s-election-win-1778045065243"><strong>Pooja Hegde predicted it! Actress shares BTS clip amid Vijay’s election win</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Formation of a Strong Anti-Piracy Team - Piracy destroys the hard work and investment of thousands of artists, technicians, producers. I request the creation of a dedicated anti-piracy enforcement team within the Tamil Nadu Police Cyber Crime Department to protect Tamil cinema with powers to enforce real time takedowns of pirated content.</li><li>Permission for 5 Shows per Day 1 - I request the Government to permit theatres across Tamil Nadu to screen 5 shows per day for all films. This will improve theatre revenues and support the recovery of the film exhibition sector.</li><li>Mandatory 8-Week OTT Window - To protect theatres, I request the Government to regulate and make an 8-week OTT release window mandatory for all films released in Tamil Nadu, enabling theatre owners and distributors to sustain themselves.</li></ul><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/trisha-krishnan-shares-warm-moment-with-vijay-s-family-during-tamil-nadu-cm-swearing-in-ceremony-1778396439972"><strong>Trisha Krishnan shares warm moment with Vijay’s family during Tamil Nadu CM swearing-in ceremony</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Film Production Incentive Scheme - I request the Government of Tamil Nadu to introduce a production incentive of up to 10% of the budget for Indian films that complete more than 50% of their shooting in Tamil Nadu. This will restore Tamil Nadu as India's leading film production hub while also generating employment and promoting tourism across the state.</li></ul><h2>Vijay's political journey</h2><p>The meeting also highlighted the growing political prominence of Vijay, whose party TVK recently emerged victorious in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections. His political journey has been one of the biggest talking points this year, as the actor-turned-politician's party secured 108 seats in the Assembly elections and later crossed the majority mark during the floor test with support from rebel MLAs, leading the way for the formation of the new government.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Kamal Haasan on Saturday met newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, and submitted six major requests aimed at addressing the concerns of the Tamil film industry. Read on to know more.

Actor-politician Kamal Haasan recently met newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, and took to his social media to share the glimpses of their meeting. He also submitted six major requests aimed at addressing the concerns of the Tamil film industry, as producers, distributors, and theatre owners are currently facing multiple challenges. Haasan shares glimpses of their meeting Haasan took to X to share the details of his meeting with CM Vijay, which happened on Saturday. "Today, I met in person with the Honorable Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Brother Vijay @TVKVijayHQ, and conveyed my best wishes," he wrote. Also Read: ‘Living dead’: Kamal Haasan warns of massive SIR discrepancies in Rajya Sabha maiden speech The veteran actor also congratulated him on assuming office and spoke about the importance of government backing for cinema in Tamil Nadu. "He enthusiastically shared many dreams for the betterment of Tamil Nadu. The humility and affection he displayed during the meeting filled me with pride," the actor further added. Haasan submits six demands to CM Vijay "I have submitted to him 6 important demands, emphasizing that the Tamil Nadu government’s support and embrace are essential for the Tamil film industry, which is facing various obstacles. May goodness flourish," he further added. Also Read: All about Vijay and Trisha's previous projects and off screen friendship

<p>Kamal Haasan on Saturday met newly sworn-in Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, and submitted six major requests aimed at addressing the concerns of the Tamil film industry. Read on to know more.</p>

8-week OTT window to anti-piracy team: Kamal Haasan meets CM Vijay, seeks major reforms in Tamil film industry

<p>Kamal Haasan, cinema superstar and politician, has shared a letter appealing to the Indian film industry to cut unnecessary production spending amid the West Asia conflict. Haasan’s letter comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to citizens to help conserve petrol, diesel, and foreign exchange reserves amid the tough situation, as global supply chains have been severely hit by crises in the Middle East.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Addressing the film industry, Haasan shared a detailed note with the caption, "My Appeal." The actor has been quite active on social media and in current politics, and time and again shares his views on the country and people’s matters.</p><h3>What Kamal Haasan shared in his appeal to the nation</h3><p>Late Friday night, the superstar shared a long note dedicated to the Indian film industry on his social media handles. He said the crisis in West Asia is deepening, and this comes at a time when Indian film budgets are already escalating while market recoveries remain uneven.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-curb-fuel-use-avoid-foreign-travel-and-buying-gold-pm-modi-appeals-nation-to-help-tide-over-crisis-1778438565952"><strong>‘</strong>Curb fuel use, avoid foreign travel and buying gold,’ PM Modi appeals nation to help tide over crisis</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>''For the Indian film industry, this comes at a time when budgets are already escalating, and market recoveries remain uneven. Rising costs will not affect film production alone. Consumer spending patterns for entertainment may also change in the months ahead due to inflationary pressures,” he shared.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Read his full statement below:</strong></p>

<p>Over the extravagant expenses on foreign trips and entourage culture and production delays, Haasan suggested,''" The correction we need is elsewhere: in avoidable waste, poor planning, inflated entourage culture, unnecessary foreign travel, production delays &nbsp;and the growing disconnect between spending and purpose. Why must every love story bloom only in Paris, and every honeymoon end in Switzerland?" Haasan wrote.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The actor also called the moment the right time for an industry-wide conversation between producers, actors, unions, studios &nbsp;exhibitors, OTT platforms, financiers, and others to discuss the economic challenges.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-government-work-from-home-fuel-saving-measures-1778756615414"> Delhi announces mandatory 2-day WFH, suspend all non-essential foreign travel for government employees&nbsp;</a></p><h2>Kamal Haasan’s suggestions welcomed by producers</h2><p>As the country and the world continue to suffer amid the crisis, Kamal Haasan’s appeal has been welcomed by producers. Vyjayanthi Movies, one of the biggest production houses in Indian cinema and the banner behind Kalki 2898 AD, appreciated the veteran actor speaking about responsible measures.&nbsp;</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Incredible man. Incredible words.<br>At a crucial time for the cinema industry, Mr. <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ikamalhaasan</a> is among the first to step forward and speak about responsible measures to control costs and protect the future of cinema. Truly appreciate it, sir. 🙏🏻 <a href="https://t.co/4MJI4ZY2Jk">https://t.co/4MJI4ZY2Jk</a></p>&mdash; Vyjayanthi Movies (@VyjayanthiFilms) <a href="https://twitter.com/VyjayanthiFilms/status/2055278456947257428?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Reposting the actor's post on X, Vyjayanthi Movies wrote,''Incredible man. Incredible words.At a crucial time for the cinema industry, Mr. &nbsp;@ikamalhaasan is among the first to step forward and speak about responsible measures to control costs and protect the future of cinema. Truly appreciate it, sir. ‘’</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Haasan's letter has received a raving response as netizens and industry people hailed him for speaking up.&nbsp;</p>

Kamal Haasan has been working in the industry for over several decades now. In an open letter for the film fraternity, the veteran actor has urged the people to unite and discuss the rising costs in industry amidst rising tensions in West Asia. 

Kamal Haasan, cinema superstar and politician, has shared a letter appealing to the Indian film industry to cut unnecessary production spending amid the West Asia conflict. Haasan’s letter comes days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to citizens to help conserve petrol, diesel, and foreign exchange reserves amid the tough situation, as global supply chains have been severely hit by crises in the Middle East. Addressing the film industry, Haasan shared a detailed note with the caption, "My Appeal." The actor has been quite active on social media and in current politics, and time and again shares his views on the country and people’s matters. What Kamal Haasan shared in his appeal to the nation Late Friday night, the superstar shared a long note dedicated to the Indian film industry on his social media handles. He said the crisis in West Asia is deepening, and this comes at a time when Indian film budgets are already escalating while market recoveries remain uneven. Also read: ‘Curb fuel use, avoid foreign travel and buying gold,’ PM Modi appeals nation to help tide over crisis ''For the Indian film industry, this comes at a time when budgets are already escalating, and market recoveries remain uneven. Rising costs will not affect film production alone. Consumer spending patterns for entertainment may also change in the months ahead due to inflationary pressures,” he shared. Read his full statement below:

<p>Kamal Haasan has been working in the industry for over several decades now. In an open letter for the film fraternity, the veteran actor has urged the people to unite and discuss the rising costs in industry amidst rising tensions in West Asia.&nbsp;</p>

Kamal Haasan pens open letter on rising industry-wide costs amid crises in West Asia, receives support from a production house

<p>The Tamil film industry has been rallying behind Vijay ever since he was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. C Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the CM on Sunday, ending days of speculation on whether he and his party would form the government in Tamil Nadu. Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan has now publicly shown his support for Vijay and lauded his move to shut down liquor shops in the state.</p><h2>What Kamal Haasan said about Vijay</h2><p>On May 13, Kamal was spotted at the Chennai airport, where he spoke to some reporters. On being asked if he had any advice to share for fellow actor Vijay who has now joined politics, the veteran star said, “My congratulations to the new government of Tamil Nadu. The closure of 717 liquor shops is a welcome move. It has been discussed for a long time and has now been implemented. It is appreciable."</p><h2>‘We should not just see Vijay as a film star’</h2><p>Kamal Haasan added, “We should not just see Vijay as a film star. He has other responsibilities as well. Anyone can come to politics from any field. It is a matter of pride that Vijay has come to power from our industry.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jana-nayagan-on-ott-vijay-s-victory-renews-interest-in-his-film-streaming-platforms-compete-to-get-digital-rights-1778666620416"><strong>Jana Nayagan OTT: Vijay’s Success ignites high-stakes streaming battle</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A day earlier, Kamal had shown support for Vijay’s first major policy move after taking the oath as CM. He ordered the closure of 717 Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) liquor outlets located near temples, schools, colleges and bus stands across the state.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Appreciating the move, Kamal Haasan wrote, “Even as the expectation of Tamil families was that liquor retail shops near places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands should be removed, Hon'ble Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Brother Vijay @TVKVijayHQ has taken this action immediately upon assuming office. Liquor sales should never be a function of the government; the government must take responsibility for regulating the flow of alcohol. The Tamil Nadu government must move towards this position. Today, it has begun by closing 717 liquor shops. This number must be increased. This action must be continued. Congratulations.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/all-eyes-on-modern-look-vijay-chooses-black-pantsuit-over-traditional-shirt-veshti-at-tn-cm-oath-ceremony-1778399089933"><strong>Vijay chooses black pantsuit over traditional veshti at TN CM oath ceremony</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He had also congratulated Vijay after he was sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. “May the state of Tamil Nadu shine under the leadership of the president of the Tamil Nadu Victory League, the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, my brother Thiru. Vijay @TVKVijayHQ. May it reach new heights. I convey my heartfelt congratulations,” he wrote.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>About Vijay's landmark win</h2><p>Vijay’s win at the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 is being seen as historic. His party TVK, registered a landslide victory in Tamil Nadu by beating both Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), the two main players in the state for decades.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>TVK, which created a record by winning 108 seats in its debut assembly polls, went on to amass the support of 120 MLAs in the 234-member assembly. The majority mark in the assembly is 118.</p>

Kamal Haasan has spoken out in support of Vijay and appreciated the new CM's move to shut down liquor shops in Tamil Nadu.  Haasan also said that Vijay should no longer be seen as a film star. 

The Tamil film industry has been rallying behind Vijay ever since he was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. C Joseph Vijay was sworn in as the CM on Sunday, ending days of speculation on whether he and his party would form the government in Tamil Nadu. Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan has now publicly shown his support for Vijay and lauded his move to shut down liquor shops in the state. What Kamal Haasan said about Vijay On May 13, Kamal was spotted at the Chennai airport, where he spoke to some reporters. On being asked if he had any advice to share for fellow actor Vijay who has now joined politics, the veteran star said, “My congratulations to the new government of Tamil Nadu. The closure of 717 liquor shops is a welcome move. It has been discussed for a long time and has now been implemented. It is appreciable." ‘We should not just see Vijay as a film star’ Kamal Haasan added, “We should not just see Vijay as a film star. He has other responsibilities as well. Anyone can come to politics from any field. It is a matter of pride that Vijay has come to power from our industry.” Also read: Jana Nayagan OTT: Vijay’s Success ignites high-stakes streaming battle A day earlier, Kamal had shown support for Vijay’s first major policy move after taking the oath as CM. He ordered the closure of 717 Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC) liquor outlets located near temples, schools, colleges and bus stands across the state. Appreciating the move, Kamal Haasan wrote, “Even as the expectation of Tamil families was that liquor retail shops near places of worship, educational institutions, and bus stands should be removed, Hon'ble Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Brother Vijay @TVKVijayHQ has taken this action immediately upon assuming office. Liquor sales should never be a function of the government; the government must take responsibility for regulating the flow of alcohol. The Tamil Nadu government must move towards this position. Today, it has begun by closing 717 liquor shops. This number must be increased. This action must be continued. Congratulations.” Also read: Vijay chooses black pantsuit over traditional veshti at TN CM oath ceremony He had also congratulated Vijay after he was sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. “May the state of Tamil Nadu shine under the leadership of the president of the Tamil Nadu Victory League, the Honourable Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, my brother Thiru. Vijay @TVKVijayHQ. May it reach new heights. I convey my heartfelt congratulations,” he wrote. About Vijay's landmark win Vijay’s win at the Tamil Nadu Assembly Elections 2026 is being seen as historic. His party TVK, registered a landslide victory in Tamil Nadu by beating both Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), the two main players in the state for decades. TVK, which created a record by winning 108 seats in its debut assembly polls, went on to amass the support of 120 MLAs in the 234-member assembly. The majority mark in the assembly is 118.

<p>Kamal Haasan has spoken out in support of Vijay and appreciated the new CM's move to shut down liquor shops in Tamil Nadu. &nbsp;Haasan also said that Vijay should no longer be seen as a film star.&nbsp;</p>

Kamal Haasan praises CM Vijay’s move to shut down liquor shops: ‘It is a matter of pride ’

In South India, cinema and politics have often shared the same stage. From MGR to Vijay, several superstars didn’t just dominate the box office; they built political movements. As Thalapathy Vijay’s TVK storms Tamil Nadu, here are cinema icons who turned fans into vote banks. Scroll down.

Vijay, MGR, Rajnikanth and more: South Indian superstars who turned fan power into political parties

<p><i>Kalki 2898 AD</i> is one of the most ambitious sci-fi projects released in recent years in Indian cinema. Starring &nbsp;Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, and Kamal Haasan, it went on to mark its spot among the highest-grossing Telugu films. Recently, the film has been garnering attention due to a big claim made about Kamal Haasan’s remuneration.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kalki-2-shoot-begins-amitabh-bachchan-shares-bts-photos-with-kamal-haasan-1771925489895"><strong> Kalki 2 shoot begins: Amitabh Bachchan shares BTS photos with Kamal Haasan</strong></a></p><h2>Kamal Haasan earned ₹150 crore for Kalki 2898 AD</h2><p>During an interview with Indiaglitz, filmmaker-actor Yugi Sethu sparked a discussion by revealing that he believes Haasan earned ₹150 crore for the film. "Kamal sir’s stature is such. He is getting paid Rs 150 crore for 20 days of the call sheet for Kalki 2898 AD. I told him on his birthday that he is the highest-paid actor in India and is getting $1 million per day, because he was paid Rs 150 crore for 20 days," Sethu said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/deepika-padukone-kalki-2892-ad-controversy-cinema-casting-and-criticism-what-went-wrong-explained-1765795294554"><strong>Deepika Padukone-Kalki 2892 AD controversy: Cinema, casting and criticism! What went wrong? | Explained</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He added that when he later spoke to the film’s producer, C. Aswani Dutt, the figure seemed to be higher. "I told him thanks for making our friend the highest-paid actor in India. When I said Rs 150 crore for 20 days, he replied, no, sir, he has given only 10 days. Sorry, I correct myself then, it’s $2 million per day," he recalled.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Haasan’s huge remuneration has sparked a debate among the netizens, with many curious to know if the claim is true. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/kalki-2898-ad-2-0-brahm-stra-top-6-indian-science-fiction-movies-you-must-watch-on-netflix-prime-and-more-1762342836211"><strong>Kalki 2898 AD, 2.0, Brahmāstra: Top 6 Indian science fiction movies you must watch on Netflix, Prime and more</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, there have been other reports claiming that the actor was paid around ₹20 crore for the film, while others suggest that the figure is above ₹100 crore.&nbsp;</p><h2>About Kalki 2898 AD</h2><p>Alongside Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone, the actor played the role of the mysterious and powerful antagonist Supreme Yaskin, who rules over the futuristic city known as the Complex. He had a limited screen time in the dystopian sci-fi drama, but fans loved his performance. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/deepika-padukone-s-exit-from-kalki-2-netizens-slam-makers-for-aggressive-statement-1758185111903"><strong> Deepika Padukone’s exit from Kalki 2: Netizens slam makers for ‘aggressive’ statement</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The sequel to <i>Kalki </i>is already in the works, and earlier Amitabh Bachchan had shared a picture on his personal blog showing him hugging Kamal Haasan on set. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><h2>Kamal Haasan's work front</h2><p>Besides <i>Kalki</i>, the actor is reportedly set to work with Rajinikanth in a film directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. He is also working with Anbarivu and producing multiple films under his banner, including a Rajinikanth-starrer directed by Cibi Chakaravarthi.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Filmmaker-actor Yugi Sethu recently revealed the huge remuneration Kamal Haasan received for Kalki 2898 AD, featuring Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone.

Kalki 2898 AD is one of the most ambitious sci-fi projects released in recent years in Indian cinema. Starring Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, and Kamal Haasan, it went on to mark its spot among the highest-grossing Telugu films. Recently, the film has been garnering attention due to a big claim made about Kamal Haasan’s remuneration. Also Read: Kalki 2 shoot begins: Amitabh Bachchan shares BTS photos with Kamal Haasan Kamal Haasan earned ₹150 crore for Kalki 2898 AD During an interview with Indiaglitz, filmmaker-actor Yugi Sethu sparked a discussion by revealing that he believes Haasan earned ₹150 crore for the film. "Kamal sir’s stature is such. He is getting paid Rs 150 crore for 20 days of the call sheet for Kalki 2898 AD. I told him on his birthday that he is the highest-paid actor in India and is getting $1 million per day, because he was paid Rs 150 crore for 20 days," Sethu said. Also Read: Deepika Padukone-Kalki 2892 AD controversy: Cinema, casting and criticism! What went wrong? | Explained He added that when he later spoke to the film’s producer, C. Aswani Dutt, the figure seemed to be higher. "I told him thanks for making our friend the highest-paid actor in India. When I said Rs 150 crore for 20 days, he replied, no, sir, he has given only 10 days. Sorry, I correct myself then, it’s $2 million per day," he recalled. Haasan’s huge remuneration has sparked a debate among the netizens, with many curious to know if the claim is true. Also Read: Kalki 2898 AD, 2.0, Brahmāstra: Top 6 Indian science fiction movies you must watch on Netflix, Prime and more Meanwhile, there have been other reports claiming that the actor was paid around ₹20 crore for the film, while others suggest that the figure is above ₹100 crore. About Kalki 2898 AD Alongside Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone, the actor played the role of the mysterious and powerful antagonist Supreme Yaskin, who rules over the futuristic city known as the Complex. He had a limited screen time in the dystopian sci-fi drama, but fans loved his performance. Also Read: Deepika Padukone’s exit from Kalki 2: Netizens slam makers for ‘aggressive’ statement The sequel to Kalki is already in the works, and earlier Amitabh Bachchan had shared a picture on his personal blog showing him hugging Kamal Haasan on set. Kamal Haasan's work front Besides Kalki, the actor is reportedly set to work with Rajinikanth in a film directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. He is also working with Anbarivu and producing multiple films under his banner, including a Rajinikanth-starrer directed by Cibi Chakaravarthi.

<p>Filmmaker-actor Yugi Sethu recently revealed the huge remuneration Kamal Haasan received for Kalki 2898 AD, featuring Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, and Deepika Padukone.</p>

Yugi Sethu calls Kamal Haasan 'highest-paid actor in India', reveals his massive fee for Kalki 2898 AD

Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan appeared in several memorable films, including Apoorva Raagangal, Moondru Mudichu, and Avargal, showcasing their versatility and exceptional on-screen chemistry. After many years, these two veterans are collaborating once again, bringing immense joy to their fans.

KH vs RK: Revisiting Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan’s films together: From Apoorva Raagangal to Ninaithale Inikkum

<p>It's happening! After months of speculation, the two stalwarts of Tamil cinema, Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, are confirmed to reunite in a new upcoming film. The makers released a teaser announcement on Saturday, which has only piqued the excitement of fans. This face-off marks a massive comeback of the duo to the Tamil screen together after 47 years. The two veterans had last shared the screen in the 1979 film Alavuddinum Athbutha Vilakkum.</p><h2>Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth Reunion</h2><p>The new yet-to-be-titled film is being directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and produced by Red Giant Movies. For years, fans have wanted to watch Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan in a film together. However, the actors, who are known to be friends off-screen, were unable to find a good script in order to work together. They had last appeared together in the 1979 film Alavuddinum Athbutha Vilakkum.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A Special reunion with my friend <a href="https://twitter.com/rajinikanth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Rajinikanth</a>. <br>Every great journey deserves another chapter! <br><br>My best to <a href="https://twitter.com/Nelsondilpkumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NelsonDilpkumar</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/anirudhofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AnirudhOfficial</a> - and to @RedGiantMovies for powering this collaboration.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KHxRK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KHxRK</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RedGiant17?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RedGiant17</a> <a href="https://t.co/pZEwYiokOY">pic.twitter.com/pZEwYiokOY</a></p>&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan/status/2025098015212790243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 21, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Earlier, the makers had dropped a hint, teasing fans about a big reveal, and on February 21, Saturday, Red Giant Movies delivered the official announcement video featuring both legendary actors in a retro and quirky look with a focus on immense charisma.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/-your-so-called-generosity-director-lenin-bharathi-slams-rajinikanth-over-charity-act-1770386992575"><strong> 'Your so called generosity...': Director Lenin Bharathi slams Rajinikanth over charity act</strong></a></p><h2>Watch the glimpse of KH x RH Reunion</h2><p>The promo features KH x RK in a high-octane, retro-style avatar. The teaser opens with Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan taking turns asking the director if the other one has chosen a particular blazer, belt, or watch. If one selects the first option, the other deliberately chooses the second.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/happy-birthday-kamal-haasan-watch-these-4-movies-featuring-him-in-negative-roles-on-netflix-prime-video-and-more-1762514603167"><strong>Happy Birthday Kamal Haasan: Watch these 4 movies featuring him in negative roles on Netflix, Prime Video, and more</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The teaser then cuts to the duo standing in a corridor, wearing leather jackets and dark glasses. They walk through a garage in slow motion towards a car. Rajinikanth stylishly throws a car key to Kamal Haasan, after which both sit in a car inside a dimly lit garage in complete swagger. The promo lasts roughly 3 minutes and 49 seconds, hinting at a high-voltage, dark-humour-filled action film.</p><h2>Fans' reaction to the iconic face-off</h2><p>Since the teaser went viral on the internet, fans have flooded the comment section expressing excitement. One wrote, "When Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth share a frame, it doesn’t feel like just another film; it feels like a page from our own memories being turned again, and this reunion already feels timeless." "Outstanding promo," another user jotted.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="50 years of Rajinikanth: From a bus conductor to superstar - journey of Thalaiva | In pics"><strong>50 years of Rajinikanth: From a bus conductor to superstar - journey of Thalaiva | In pics</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>One user predicted the success of the Tamil cinema industry while writing, "Best opportunity for the Tamil cinema industry to cross the 1000 cr mark." Another fan expressed his feeling, "Mass meets Masterpiece."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/-living-dead-kamal-haasan-warns-of-massive-sir-discrepancies-in-rajya-sabha-maiden-speech-1770267708340"><strong>‘Living dead’: Kamal Haasan warns of massive SIR discrepancies in Rajya Sabha maiden speech</strong></a></p><h2>Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan reunite after 47 years</h2><p>The two legends, Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, started their careers in the 1970s. The two shared the screen in several films, starting with Apoorva Raagangal, Moondru Mudichu, Avargal, 16 Vayathinile, Pathinaru Vayathinile, and Ninaithale Inikkum.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Their reunion is considered a monumental moment for Tamil cinema and Indian cinema at large. Both have often been pitted against each other and considered screen rivals. However, the two have been fans of each other's work off-screen.</p>

Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan are reuniting on screen after 47 years in a film directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. The makers released a promo showcasing an epic face-off between the two veterans in a retro-themed look. Watch it below.

It's happening! After months of speculation, the two stalwarts of Tamil cinema, Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth, are confirmed to reunite in a new upcoming film. The makers released a teaser announcement on Saturday, which has only piqued the excitement of fans. This face-off marks a massive comeback of the duo to the Tamil screen together after 47 years. The two veterans had last shared the screen in the 1979 film Alavuddinum Athbutha Vilakkum. Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth Reunion The new yet-to-be-titled film is being directed by Nelson Dilipkumar and produced by Red Giant Movies. For years, fans have wanted to watch Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan in a film together. However, the actors, who are known to be friends off-screen, were unable to find a good script in order to work together. They had last appeared together in the 1979 film Alavuddinum Athbutha Vilakkum.

<p>Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan are reuniting on screen after 47 years in a film directed by Nelson Dilipkumar. On February 21, the makers released the first promo showcasing an epic face-off between the two veterans in a retro-themed look. Watch it below.</p>

Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan reunite on screen! First promo of KH x RK film breaks the internet

<p>Actor-politician and MP Kamal Haasan delivered his maiden speech at the Rajya Sabha on February 4 and expressed concerns over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Tamil Nadu. In his speech, Haasan stated that 1 crore electorals could be declared as ‘living dead’ on pape,r all thanks to SIR.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Haasan cited the example of Bihar, where the SIR of electoral rolls began in June last year and said, “My imminent concerns are the forthcoming elections…I call it the spell-check story of the living dead. We want to cast our votes, and commissions are checking our right to vote. They are checking the spellings and addresses, and that too erroneously.”&nbsp;</p><p>The actor was referring to the ongoing process of EC using a centralised software to generate notice electors based on 5 categories of “logical discrepancies” submitted in their documents. This includes a spelling mismatch.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We just want to cast our vote. Spelling mistakes are a curse only for languages. Modern literature forgives these in favour of content, as does the internet. The Election Commission obviously does not. EC does not mean English coaches,” the actor said.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He pointed out that because of the spelling mismatch, Bihar has become a “land of the living dead”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“We don’t want this disease to spread across the country…EC is surely facilitating the spread of this disease. We fear that there could soon be nearly 1 crore living dead on paper in Tamil Nadu,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He urged the House to act immediately, adding that the “juggernaut called democratic India will roll on”.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier in December 2025, the initial draft roll pointed at the deletion of 97 lakh electors in Tamil Nadu alone. All have either been marked dead, shifted or registered at some other place.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nearly 1.70 crore electors were flagged for notices. The final electoral roll is scheduled to be out on February 14, and Assembly elections in TN are due soon after.</p>

In his first speech at the Rajya Sabha, MP-actor Kamal Haasan raised concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Tamil Nadu. Citing Bihar's example, Haasan urged the Upper House to act upon the discrepancies. 

Actor-politician and MP Kamal Haasan delivered his maiden speech at the Rajya Sabha on February 4 and expressed concerns over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Tamil Nadu. In his speech, Haasan stated that 1 crore electorals could be declared as ‘living dead’ on pape,r all thanks to SIR. Haasan cited the example of Bihar, where the SIR of electoral rolls began in June last year and said, “My imminent concerns are the forthcoming elections…I call it the spell-check story of the living dead. We want to cast our votes, and commissions are checking our right to vote. They are checking the spellings and addresses, and that too erroneously.” The actor was referring to the ongoing process of EC using a centralised software to generate notice electors based on 5 categories of “logical discrepancies” submitted in their documents. This includes a spelling mismatch. “We just want to cast our vote. Spelling mistakes are a curse only for languages. Modern literature forgives these in favour of content, as does the internet. The Election Commission obviously does not. EC does not mean English coaches,” the actor said. He pointed out that because of the spelling mismatch, Bihar has become a “land of the living dead”. “We don’t want this disease to spread across the country…EC is surely facilitating the spread of this disease. We fear that there could soon be nearly 1 crore living dead on paper in Tamil Nadu,” he said. He urged the House to act immediately, adding that the “juggernaut called democratic India will roll on”. Earlier in December 2025, the initial draft roll pointed at the deletion of 97 lakh electors in Tamil Nadu alone. All have either been marked dead, shifted or registered at some other place. Nearly 1.70 crore electors were flagged for notices. The final electoral roll is scheduled to be out on February 14, and Assembly elections in TN are due soon after.

<p>In his first speech at the Rajya Sabha, MP-actor Kamal Haasan raised concerns over the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Tamil Nadu. Citing Bihar's example, Haasan urged the Upper House to act upon the discrepancies.&nbsp;</p>

‘Living dead’: Kamal Haasan warns of massive SIR discrepancies in Rajya Sabha maiden speech

<p>Veteran actor-politician Kamal Haasan has issued a strong statement amid the ongoing controversies surrounding the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), raising broader concerns about the freedom of expression and the censoring process in the film industry.</p><p><br>While refraining from mentioning any institution or any specific film, Haasan, in his statement, noted, "India's Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, guided by reason, never diminished by opacity. This moment is larger than any one film; it reflects the space we accord art and artists in a constitutional democracy. Cinema is not the labour of an individual alone but the collective effort of an ecosystem of writers, technicians, performers, exhibitors, and small businesses whose livelihoods depend on a fair and timely process."</p><p><br>Emphasising the need for clarity, the actor underscored how such censorship processes could stifle creativity and disrupt livelihoods across the film ecosystem.</p><p><br>"When clarity is absent, creativity is constrained, economic activity is disrupted, and public trust is weakened. Tamil Nadu and India's cinema lovers bring passion, discernment, and maturity to the arts; they deserve openness and respect. What is required now is a principled relook at the certification processes with defined timelines for certification, transparent evaluation, and written, reasoned justification for every suggested cut or edit," he said.</p><p><br>Haasan called for the film industry to "unite and engage in meaningful, constructive dialogue" and added, "Such reform will safeguard creative freedom, uphold constitutional values, and strengthen India's democratic institutions by affirming trust in its artists and its people."</p><p><br>Kamal Haasan's reaction came in the wake of Thalapathy Vijay's Jana Nayagan row.</p><p><br>On Friday, the Madras High Court directed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue a U/A 16+ certification for the film, days after the makers postponed its theatrical release.</p><p><br>"The matter was postponed, and today the order was pronounced. The writ petition has been allowed by the MHC. If the movie is not screened on time, it will be a huge loss for people, so reimbursement is being given. The lawyers informed that 27 scenes have been cut. If CBFC goes for an appeal, we will face them in court," Indra Dhanraj, joint coordinator for the state legal wing, TVK, told the media.</p><p><br>'Jana Nayagan' producer Venkat Narayana, in a video message, stated that the matter remains "subjudiced."</p><p><br>He revealed that the film was initially cleared after the makers incorporated a few cuts as suggested by the board.</p><p><br>"Just a few days before our planned release, we were informed that the film had been referred to the revising committee based on a complaint. With the time running out and without knowing the complainant, we approached the High Court. After hearing the matter, the court directed that the certificate be issued, but CBFC challenged the decision immediately. The order to issue the certification has been stayed."</p><p><br>Directed by H. Vinoth and produced by Venkat K. Narayana under KVN Productions, 'Jana Nayagan' is dubbed as Thalapathy Vijay's last film.</p>

Directed by H. Vinoth and produced by Venkat K. Narayana under KVN Productions, 'Jana Nayagan' is dubbed as Thalapathy Vijay's last film.

Veteran actor-politician Kamal Haasan has issued a strong statement amid the ongoing controversies surrounding the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), raising broader concerns about the freedom of expression and the censoring process in the film industry. While refraining from mentioning any institution or any specific film, Haasan, in his statement, noted, "India's Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, guided by reason, never diminished by opacity. This moment is larger than any one film; it reflects the space we accord art and artists in a constitutional democracy. Cinema is not the labour of an individual alone but the collective effort of an ecosystem of writers, technicians, performers, exhibitors, and small businesses whose livelihoods depend on a fair and timely process." Emphasising the need for clarity, the actor underscored how such censorship processes could stifle creativity and disrupt livelihoods across the film ecosystem. "When clarity is absent, creativity is constrained, economic activity is disrupted, and public trust is weakened. Tamil Nadu and India's cinema lovers bring passion, discernment, and maturity to the arts; they deserve openness and respect. What is required now is a principled relook at the certification processes with defined timelines for certification, transparent evaluation, and written, reasoned justification for every suggested cut or edit," he said. Haasan called for the film industry to "unite and engage in meaningful, constructive dialogue" and added, "Such reform will safeguard creative freedom, uphold constitutional values, and strengthen India's democratic institutions by affirming trust in its artists and its people." Kamal Haasan's reaction came in the wake of Thalapathy Vijay's Jana Nayagan row. On Friday, the Madras High Court directed the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to issue a U/A 16+ certification for the film, days after the makers postponed its theatrical release. "The matter was postponed, and today the order was pronounced. The writ petition has been allowed by the MHC. If the movie is not screened on time, it will be a huge loss for people, so reimbursement is being given. The lawyers informed that 27 scenes have been cut. If CBFC goes for an appeal, we will face them in court," Indra Dhanraj, joint coordinator for the state legal wing, TVK, told the media. 'Jana Nayagan' producer Venkat Narayana, in a video message, stated that the matter remains "subjudiced." He revealed that the film was initially cleared after the makers incorporated a few cuts as suggested by the board. "Just a few days before our planned release, we were informed that the film had been referred to the revising committee based on a complaint. With the time running out and without knowing the complainant, we approached the High Court. After hearing the matter, the court directed that the certificate be issued, but CBFC challenged the decision immediately. The order to issue the certification has been stayed." Directed by H. Vinoth and produced by Venkat K. Narayana under KVN Productions, 'Jana Nayagan' is dubbed as Thalapathy Vijay's last film.

<p>Directed by H. Vinoth and produced by Venkat K. Narayana under KVN Productions, 'Jana Nayagan' is dubbed as Thalapathy Vijay's last film.</p>

Kamal Haasan on certification processes amid Jana Nayagan legal row: 'Public trust is weakened'

<p>Kamal Haasan was sworn in as an MP in the &nbsp;Rajya Sabha earlier this year. The veteran actor has revealed that how he was incredibly proud of himself to be inducted as an MP and wanted to call up his mother to tell her that he got a government job. Haasan spoke candidly about cinema and politics in a session at the Hortus Art and Literature Festival in Kerala. The session had him and actress Manju Warrier sharing their experience of working in cinema.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>‘I was a school dropout’&nbsp;</h2><p>The veteran actor was asked to describe his feelings when he became a Rajya Sabha MP. The actor revealed that he remembered his parents, D Srinivasan Iyengar and Rajalakshmi, in that moment. “I went, and when I signed, the first thing that came to mind was my father and mother. I was a school dropout, and my mother would always tell me that if I had at least passed the SSLC exam, I would’ve gotten a government job in the railways,” he said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Haasan then said that he had finally achieved his mother’s dream at the age of 71 and he was so proud of himself. The actor wanted to call her to tell her about it. “But when I walked in after 70, I walked, and I signed, and they gave me my daily expenses. And suddenly, I wanted to call my mother or somebody and say, "I’m in a government job." That’s how proud I feel,” added Kamal. The actor also mentioned that he is proud to serve people, just as he has always wanted.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/kamal-haasan-says-vijay-is-not-his-political-enemy-reveals-why-he-won-t-advise-his-brother-1764567622252"><strong>Not Vijay but Kamal Haasan lists this as his biggest political enemy</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The actor also spoke about his political ideology at the event, stating that he was centrist and calling casteism his biggest enemy in politics.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He claimed that his production house, Raaj Kamal Films International, also backs subjects he believes in ideologically.</p><h2>Recent work of Kamal Haasan</h2><p>Kamal Haasan was last seen in Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life, which released earlier this year and received a lukewarm response. He will soon star in an untitled project by the duo Anbariv and produce a film starring Rajinikanth. Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/thug-life-review-kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-str-release-date-1749116440443">Thug Life review: Kamal Haasan defies death and logic in Mani Ratnam’s most commercial outing to date</a></p>

Kamal Haasan recently attended a session at an event in Kerala and recalled how he wanted to call his mother when he was sworn in as an MP in the Rajya Sabha earlier. The actor said it was his mother's dream to see him get a government job. 

Kamal Haasan was sworn in as an MP in the Rajya Sabha earlier this year. The veteran actor has revealed that how he was incredibly proud of himself to be inducted as an MP and wanted to call up his mother to tell her that he got a government job. Haasan spoke candidly about cinema and politics in a session at the Hortus Art and Literature Festival in Kerala. The session had him and actress Manju Warrier sharing their experience of working in cinema. ‘I was a school dropout’ The veteran actor was asked to describe his feelings when he became a Rajya Sabha MP. The actor revealed that he remembered his parents, D Srinivasan Iyengar and Rajalakshmi, in that moment. “I went, and when I signed, the first thing that came to mind was my father and mother. I was a school dropout, and my mother would always tell me that if I had at least passed the SSLC exam, I would’ve gotten a government job in the railways,” he said. Haasan then said that he had finally achieved his mother’s dream at the age of 71 and he was so proud of himself. The actor wanted to call her to tell her about it. “But when I walked in after 70, I walked, and I signed, and they gave me my daily expenses. And suddenly, I wanted to call my mother or somebody and say, "I’m in a government job." That’s how proud I feel,” added Kamal. The actor also mentioned that he is proud to serve people, just as he has always wanted. Also read: Not Vijay but Kamal Haasan lists this as his biggest political enemy The actor also spoke about his political ideology at the event, stating that he was centrist and calling casteism his biggest enemy in politics. He claimed that his production house, Raaj Kamal Films International, also backs subjects he believes in ideologically. Recent work of Kamal Haasan Kamal Haasan was last seen in Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life, which released earlier this year and received a lukewarm response. He will soon star in an untitled project by the duo Anbariv and produce a film starring Rajinikanth. Also read: Thug Life review: Kamal Haasan defies death and logic in Mani Ratnam’s most commercial outing to date

<p>Kamal Haasan recently attended a session at an event in Kerala and recalled how he wanted to call his mother when he was sworn in as an MP in the Rajya Sabha earlier. The actor said it was his mother's dream to see him get a government job.&nbsp;</p>

‘School dropout’ Kamal Haasan admits he feels proud of landing a ‘government job’ after being sworn in Rajya Sabha

<p>Kamal Haasan has addressed questions about his political journey and actor Vijay’s growing influence in politics. Vijay has recently launched the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party, which has been gaining popularity. Haasan spoke about political rivalry between the two actors and the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections during a panel discussion at the Hortus Art and Literature Festival in Kerala.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Kamal Haasan’s biggest enemy in politics</h2><p>The veteran was asked to name his party, MNM’s principal political opponent, since TVK has clearly challenged the ruling party, DMK. Kamal responded that his party’s focus is aimed at deeper issues.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“My enemy is bigger than what most parties would dare to identify. My enemy, direct enemy…I’ll go for the kill, is casteism. Why use a violent word like kill? Because casteism is very, very violent. It has to be dealt with deliberately, quickly, and as soon as possible. That is my enemy, I have chosen my enemy, it’s a big enemy."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>No political advice to Vijay</h2><p>Kamal was asked if he wished to guide or give advice to Vijay, considering Kamal’s MNM entered politics in 2018 and while Vijay’s party, TVK, was formed only this year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The veteran actor said that it was not the right moment to counsel Vijay. “I am not in a position to give advice. I never took advice because it never came to me at the right moment. Maybe it’s not the right moment to advise my brother. Experience is a better teacher than any of us because we have a bias; experience doesn’t. It just comes, gives you what you deserve to learn."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Kamal Haasan’s upcoming projects</h2><p>Kamal Haasan was last seen in Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life, which opened to mixed reviews. He is set to appear in a new film directed by the stunt-choreographer duo Anbariv and is also producing an upcoming project featuring Rajinikanth.&nbsp;</p>

Kamal Haasan has spoken about actor Vijay's foray into politics ahead of the Tamil Nadu State assembly elections. Vijay has recently launched the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party, which has been gaining popularity.

Kamal Haasan has addressed questions about his political journey and actor Vijay’s growing influence in politics. Vijay has recently launched the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party, which has been gaining popularity. Haasan spoke about political rivalry between the two actors and the upcoming 2026 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections during a panel discussion at the Hortus Art and Literature Festival in Kerala. Kamal Haasan’s biggest enemy in politics The veteran was asked to name his party, MNM’s principal political opponent, since TVK has clearly challenged the ruling party, DMK. Kamal responded that his party’s focus is aimed at deeper issues. “My enemy is bigger than what most parties would dare to identify. My enemy, direct enemy…I’ll go for the kill, is casteism. Why use a violent word like kill? Because casteism is very, very violent. It has to be dealt with deliberately, quickly, and as soon as possible. That is my enemy, I have chosen my enemy, it’s a big enemy." No political advice to Vijay Kamal was asked if he wished to guide or give advice to Vijay, considering Kamal’s MNM entered politics in 2018 and while Vijay’s party, TVK, was formed only this year. The veteran actor said that it was not the right moment to counsel Vijay. “I am not in a position to give advice. I never took advice because it never came to me at the right moment. Maybe it’s not the right moment to advise my brother. Experience is a better teacher than any of us because we have a bias; experience doesn’t. It just comes, gives you what you deserve to learn." Kamal Haasan’s upcoming projects Kamal Haasan was last seen in Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life, which opened to mixed reviews. He is set to appear in a new film directed by the stunt-choreographer duo Anbariv and is also producing an upcoming project featuring Rajinikanth.

<p>Kamal Haasan has spoken about actor Vijay's foray into politics ahead of the Tamil Nadu State assembly elections. Vijay has recently launched the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party, which has been gaining popularity.</p>

Kamal Haasan says Vijay is not his political enemy, reveals why he won’t advise his ‘brother’

Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan turned 71 on November 7th, 2025. Over the years, the superstar has gained a massive fanbase thanks to the iconic roles he has played, both good and bad. While all his roles and films are iconic, here's looking at the negative roles that he has played onscreen.

Happy Birthday Kamal Haasan: Watch these 4 movies featuring him in negative roles on Netflix, Prime Video, and more

<p>The two pillars of Tamil cinema- Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan are joining hands for a new film. Thalaivar 173 starring Rajinikanth will be produced under Kamal Haasan’s RajKamal Films International banner. The film&nbsp;will be helmed by Sundar C.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This landmark collaboration not only unites two towering forces of Indian cinema but also celebrates five decades of friendship and brotherhood between Superstar Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, read a statement on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Thalaivar 173 is slated for a grand theatrical release through Red Giant Movies during Pongal 2027. While Rajinikanth will play the lead in the film, it is not clear yet if Kamal Haasan will have a cameo appearance in the film.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Taking to X, Kamal Haasan announced the collaboration and wrote in Tamil, "Making the announcement, Kamal Haasan wrote, “Like wind, like rain, like river. Let's shower, let's enjoy, let's live! Superstar Rajinikanth will star in the movie directed by Sundar C and produced by Raaj Kamal Films International #Thalaivar173 #Pongal2027.”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ta" dir="ltr">காற்றாய் மழையாய் நதியாய்<br>பொழிவோம் மகிழ்வோம் வாழ்வோம்!<br><br>ராஜ்கமல் பிலிம்ஸ் இண்டர்நேசனல் தயாரிப்பில் சுந்தர்.சி இயக்கத்தில் இனிய நண்பர் சூப்பர் ஸ்டார் ரஜினிகாந்த் நடிக்கும் <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Thalaivar173?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Thalaivar173</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pongal2027?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pongal2027</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rajinikanth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajinikanth</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SundarC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SundarC</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mahendran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mahendran</a><a href="https://twitter.com/RKFI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RKFI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/turmericmediaTM?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@turmericmediaTM</a> <a href="https://t.co/wBT5OAG4Au">pic.twitter.com/wBT5OAG4Au</a></p>&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan/status/1986067542881034633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Rajinikanth was last seen in the action thriller Coolie. The film was helmed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. Set against the gritty backdrop of the Visakhapatnam docks, Coolie follows Deva, a former coolie turned rebel who uncovers a deadly smuggling syndicate while investigating his best friend's suspicious death.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nagarjuna, Sathyaraj, Soubin Shahir and Shruti Haasan also played key roles in Coolie.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Kamal Haasan was last seen in Thug Life. The film marked Haasan’s collaboration with Mani Ratnam after three decades. The film was released amid great fanfare; however, it failed to make a mark at the box office.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(With agency inputs)</i></p>

Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan- the two biggest superstars of Tamil cinema- are all set to collaborate for a new film. Thalaivar 173 will star Rajinikanth in the leading role and have Kamal Haasan as a producer. 

The two pillars of Tamil cinema- Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan are joining hands for a new film. Thalaivar 173 starring Rajinikanth will be produced under Kamal Haasan’s RajKamal Films International banner. The film will be helmed by Sundar C. This landmark collaboration not only unites two towering forces of Indian cinema but also celebrates five decades of friendship and brotherhood between Superstar Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan, read a statement on Wednesday. Thalaivar 173 is slated for a grand theatrical release through Red Giant Movies during Pongal 2027. While Rajinikanth will play the lead in the film, it is not clear yet if Kamal Haasan will have a cameo appearance in the film. Taking to X, Kamal Haasan announced the collaboration and wrote in Tamil, "Making the announcement, Kamal Haasan wrote, “Like wind, like rain, like river. Let's shower, let's enjoy, let's live! Superstar Rajinikanth will star in the movie directed by Sundar C and produced by Raaj Kamal Films International #Thalaivar173 #Pongal2027.”

<p>Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan- the two biggest superstars of Tamil cinema- are all set to collaborate for a new film. Thalaivar 173 will star Rajinikanth in the leading role and have Kamal Haasan as a producer.&nbsp;</p>

Biggest collab of Tamil Cinema! Rajinikanth's next film Thalaivar 173 will be produced by Kamal Haasan

<p>Kamal Haasan’s iconic film Hey Ram (2000) has apparently got an Aparna Sen connection to it. The film was made simultaneously in Tamil and Hindi, and featured Rani Mukerji as Kamal Haasan’s Bengali wife. The character was reportedly named after the veteran Bengali actress and filmmaker Aparna Sen- a fact that was revealed recently by Kamal Haasan’s daughter, actress Shruti Haasan. While promoting her recently released film Coolie, Shurti Haasan revealed to Sathyaraj that her father had even learnt Bengali to impress Aparna Sen.&nbsp;</p><h2>Kamal Haasan learnt Bengali for Aparna Sen</h2><p>Shruti and Sathyaraj were discussing Kamal’s dedication to his craft when it came up that he learnt Bengali work in Hey Ram. Sathyaraj also pointed out that, like her father, Shruti knew multiple languages. In response, Shruti stated that Kamal took up learning the language out of admiration for Aparna.</p>

<p>She said, “No, no. Do you know why he learnt Bengali? Because at that time, he was in love with Aparna Sen. He learnt Bengali to impress her, he did not learn it for films,” with a chuckle. Delving more, Shruti also mentioned that Kamal was so enamoured by her, he even named Rani after her in Hey Ram. “Even in Hey Ram, Rani Mukerji is named Aparna after her,” added Shruti.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/coolie-review-rajinikanth-and-lokesh-combo-is-a-mid-rehash-of-vikram-1755159637449"><strong>Coolie movie review: Rajinikanth and Lokesh combo is a mid rehash of Vikram</strong></a></p><h2>About Aparna Sen</h2><p>Aparna Sen is considered a stalwart in Bengali cinema. She is an actor, director, and writer known for her work mostly in Bengali cinema. She was launched by ace filmmaker Satyajit Ray in the 1961 film Teen Kanya. She has nine National Film Awards to her credit. She is well-known for acting in films like Basanta Bilap (1973) and Memsaheb (1972), and directing 36 Chowringhee Lane (1981) and Goynar Baksho (2013). Her daughter Konkona Sen Sharma, is also a well-known actress. The mother-daughter duo worked together in Mr&amp; Mrs Iyer.&nbsp;</p><h2>About Hey Ram</h2><p>Hey Ram was written, directed, produced, and starred Kamal Haasan along with Shah Rukh Khan, Rani, Hema Malini, Vasundhara Das, Naseeruddin Sha,h and others. The film was controversial for its depiction of Gandhi and the events surrounding his death.</p><p>Kamal was last seen in Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life, which was released earlier this year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/thug-life-review-kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-str-release-date-1749116440443"><strong> Thug Life review: Kamal Haasan defies death and logic in Mani Ratnam’s most commercial outing to date</strong></a></p>

Shruti Haasan in a recent interview, revealed her father Kamal Haasan was in love with veteran Bengali actress-filmmaker Aparna Sen and learnt Bengali to impress her. 

Kamal Haasan’s iconic film Hey Ram (2000) has apparently got an Aparna Sen connection to it. The film was made simultaneously in Tamil and Hindi, and featured Rani Mukerji as Kamal Haasan’s Bengali wife. The character was reportedly named after the veteran Bengali actress and filmmaker Aparna Sen- a fact that was revealed recently by Kamal Haasan’s daughter, actress Shruti Haasan. While promoting her recently released film Coolie, Shurti Haasan revealed to Sathyaraj that her father had even learnt Bengali to impress Aparna Sen. Kamal Haasan learnt Bengali for Aparna Sen Shruti and Sathyaraj were discussing Kamal’s dedication to his craft when it came up that he learnt Bengali work in Hey Ram. Sathyaraj also pointed out that, like her father, Shruti knew multiple languages. In response, Shruti stated that Kamal took up learning the language out of admiration for Aparna.

<p>Shruti Haasan in a recent interview, revealed her father Kamal Haasan was in love with veteran Bengali actress-filmmaker Aparna Sen and learnt Bengali to impress her.&nbsp;</p>

Kamal Haasan was in love with Aparna Sen, named Rani Mukerji after her in Hey Ram, reveals Shruti Haasan

<p>Actor Kamal Haasan met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday and requested him to "expedite the recognition of Keeladi's antiquity". The Tamil Superstar, who has recently been inducted into the Rajya Sabha, took to X to share a few snapshots of his meeting with PM Modi in Delhi. This was the actor’s first meeting with PM Modi after being sworn in as a member of the Rajya Sabha earlier in July.</p><h2>Kamal Haasan gifts PM Modi a memento</h2><p>In the photos, Kamal was seen interacting with PM Modi. He also gave him a memento themed around Keeladi village. The village is situated 12km from Madurai, set on the banks of the Vaigai River. The area is considered an ancient site dating back to the Sangam era.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sharing the photos, Kamal wrote, "Today, I had the honour of meeting the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi ji. As a representative of the people of Tamil Nadu and as an artist, I placed before him a few requests, foremost among them was the call to expedite the recognition of Keeladi's antiquity."</p><p><br>"I urged the Prime Minister to extend his support to the Tamil people in showcasing to the world the grandeur of Tamil civilisation and the timeless glory of the Tamil language," he added. The Centre and DMK-led Tamil Nadu government have been at loggerheads over the Keezhadi, also spelt Keeladi, findings.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="ta" dir="ltr">மாண்புமிகு இந்தியப் பிரதமர் திரு. நரேந்திர மோடி அவர்களை மரியாதை நிமித்தமாக இன்று சந்தித்தேன். ஒரு கலைஞனாகவும் தமிழ்நாட்டின் பிரதிநிதியாகவும் அவரிடம் சில கோரிக்கைகளைத் தெரிவித்திருக்கிறேன். அவற்றுள் தலையாயது கீழடி.<br><br>தமிழின் தொன்மையை, தமிழ் நாகரிகத்தின் பெருமையை உலகிற்கு உரக்கச்… <a href="https://t.co/rXwXzddMvF">pic.twitter.com/rXwXzddMvF</a></p>&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan/status/1953415546629988672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Kamal Haasan takes oath in Rajya Sabha</h2><p>Last month, Kamal took the oath in Tamil as an MP in the Upper House of Parliament, receiving a resounding applause from fellow MPs. This is his first stint at the Rajya Sabha. He was nominated with the support of the ruling DMK-led alliance, which had promised him a Rajya Sabha seat in return for MNM's support during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.</p><h2>Kamal's recent film</h2><p>Kamal was last seen in Thug Life, which hit the theatres in June this year. The film marked Kamal’s collaboration with Mani Ratnam, after three decades. The film had released in Telugu, Hindi and Malayalam. The film also starred Silambarasan TR, Trisha, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Nassar, Mahesh Manjrekar and Ali Fazal among others. Thug Life got mostly negative reviews from critics. WION’s Shomini Sen wrote, “<i>Thug Life</i> seems to be more of a massy drama which doesn’t particularly have any distinct stamp of Ratnam. <i>Thug Life</i> unfortunately falls into the usual trappings of a masala potboiler and never elevates itself to be something marvelous. It's a cinematic version of <i>Mirzapur, </i>where everyone is eyeing the hot seat and thus, trying to outdo the other person. And because most of us have watched the web series, <i>Thug Life </i>doesn't offer us anything new.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The actor, who has been recently sworn in as a member of the Rajya Sabha, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday and even shared a memento. The actor later shared images of their meeting on X.

Actor Kamal Haasan met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday and requested him to "expedite the recognition of Keeladi's antiquity". The Tamil Superstar, who has recently been inducted into the Rajya Sabha, took to X to share a few snapshots of his meeting with PM Modi in Delhi. This was the actor’s first meeting with PM Modi after being sworn in as a member of the Rajya Sabha earlier in July. Kamal Haasan gifts PM Modi a memento In the photos, Kamal was seen interacting with PM Modi. He also gave him a memento themed around Keeladi village. The village is situated 12km from Madurai, set on the banks of the Vaigai River. The area is considered an ancient site dating back to the Sangam era. Sharing the photos, Kamal wrote, "Today, I had the honour of meeting the Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi ji. As a representative of the people of Tamil Nadu and as an artist, I placed before him a few requests, foremost among them was the call to expedite the recognition of Keeladi's antiquity." "I urged the Prime Minister to extend his support to the Tamil people in showcasing to the world the grandeur of Tamil civilisation and the timeless glory of the Tamil language," he added. The Centre and DMK-led Tamil Nadu government have been at loggerheads over the Keezhadi, also spelt Keeladi, findings.

<p>The actor, who has been recently sworn in as a member of the Rajya Sabha, met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday and even shared a memento. The actor later shared images of their meeting on X.</p>

Kamal Haasan meets PM Modi, urges for antiquity for Keeladi village

<p>Actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) chief Kamal Haasan made his parliamentary debut as he took oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha. Haasan delivered his oath in Tamil, receiving enthusiastic desk thumps from fellow Parliamentarians. This marks his first time in a national legislative role, a major step forward in his political journey. His nomination was backed by Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK-led alliance in return for MNM’s support during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.</p><h2>Kamal Haasan on his parliamentary debut</h2><p>Speaking to ANI, Haasan said, “I am very proud and honoured.” He had filed his nomination on 6 June at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat, joined by Chief Minister MK Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. Haasan, along with five others, was elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Tamil Nadu.</p><h2>Mixed fortunes on the film front</h2><p>Haasan’s most recent film, the crime drama <i>Thug Life</i>, saw him reunite with veteran director Mani Ratnam. Despite the high-profile collaboration, the film received mixed reviews and underperformed at the box office, grossing just ₹97 crore ($11.21 million) against a hefty ₹300 crore ($34.6 million) budget. The film was also mired in controversy in Karnataka due to Haasan’s remarks about the Kannada language, which resulted in it not being released in the state.</p><h2>Big projects lined up</h2><p>Next, Haasan is set to appear in the sequel to <i>Kalki 2898 AD</i>, the 2024 sci-fi blockbuster starring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Haasan himself. The film was one of the year's biggest hits, earning ₹1200 crore ($138 million) worldwide. Around 60 per cent of the sequel has already been shot, with the remaining scenes scheduled for filming later this year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He will also reprise his dual roles as Veerasekaran Senapathy and Veerasekaran Balram in <i>Indian 3</i>, which will be a direct sequel to <i>Indian 2.</i><br>&nbsp;</p>

Veteran actor Kamal Haasan has made his debut in Parliament as a member of the Rajya Sabha, taking his oath in Tamil, marking a major milestone in his political career. The actor is the chief of the Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) political party. 

Actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) chief Kamal Haasan made his parliamentary debut as he took oath as a member of the Rajya Sabha. Haasan delivered his oath in Tamil, receiving enthusiastic desk thumps from fellow Parliamentarians. This marks his first time in a national legislative role, a major step forward in his political journey. His nomination was backed by Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK-led alliance in return for MNM’s support during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Kamal Haasan on his parliamentary debut Speaking to ANI, Haasan said, “I am very proud and honoured.” He had filed his nomination on 6 June at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat, joined by Chief Minister MK Stalin and Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. Haasan, along with five others, was elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Tamil Nadu. Mixed fortunes on the film front Haasan’s most recent film, the crime drama Thug Life, saw him reunite with veteran director Mani Ratnam. Despite the high-profile collaboration, the film received mixed reviews and underperformed at the box office, grossing just ₹97 crore ($11.21 million) against a hefty ₹300 crore ($34.6 million) budget. The film was also mired in controversy in Karnataka due to Haasan’s remarks about the Kannada language, which resulted in it not being released in the state. Big projects lined up Next, Haasan is set to appear in the sequel to Kalki 2898 AD, the 2024 sci-fi blockbuster starring Prabhas, Deepika Padukone, Amitabh Bachchan, and Haasan himself. The film was one of the year's biggest hits, earning ₹1200 crore ($138 million) worldwide. Around 60 per cent of the sequel has already been shot, with the remaining scenes scheduled for filming later this year. He will also reprise his dual roles as Veerasekaran Senapathy and Veerasekaran Balram in Indian 3, which will be a direct sequel to Indian 2.

<p>Veteran actor Kamal Haasan has made his debut in Parliament as a member of the Rajya Sabha, taking his oath in Tamil, marking a major milestone in his political career. The actor is the chief of the Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM)&nbsp;political party.&nbsp;</p>

Kamal Haasan takes oath as Rajya Sabha MP in Tamil, marks Parliament debut

<p>Indian film personalities Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana and Payal Kapadia are among the 534 artists and executives to have been invited by join as members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) – the organization behind the annual Oscar awards.&nbsp;</p><p><br>The Los Angeles-based Academy, announced the 'Oscars' Class of 2025' on Thursday night.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>While Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan and Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana have been invited to join the Actors' Branch, Cannes 2024 Grand Prix-winning filmmaker Payal Kapadia has received an invitation from the Writers' Branch.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"We are thrilled to invite this esteemed class of artists, technologists, and professionals to join the Academy" said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang. "Through their commitment to filmmaking and to the greater movie industry, these exceptionally talented individuals have made indelible contributions to our global filmmaking community," she said in a statement.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>According to the official website of the Academy, the membership process for its 19 branches and one membership classification is conducted by sponsorship, not application.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Except for Associates, candidates must be sponsored by two Academy members from the branch or category to which the candidate seeks admission. In addition, Academy Award nominees are automatically considered for membership in the year in which they are nominated and do not require sponsors," the organisation stated.</p><p>In a bid for representation, the Academy has been inducting several Indian film personalities as members in the past few years.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Of the 2025 invited class, 41% are women, 45% belong to underrepresented communities, and 55% are from 60 countries and territories outside the United States, the Academy stated. There are 91 Oscar nominees, including 26 winners, and three Scientific and Technical Award winners among the invitees, it said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Last year, veteran actor Shabana Azmi, <i>RRR</i> director SS Rajamouli, producer Ritesh Sidhwani, cinematographer Ravi Varman, Rima Das of <i>Village Rockstars </i>and <i>Naatu Naatu </i>choreographer Prem Rakshith were inducted into the Academy.&nbsp;</p>

While Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan and Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana have been invited to join the Actors' Branch, Cannes 2024 Grand Prix-winning filmmaker Payal Kapadia has received an invitation from the Writers' Branch.

Indian film personalities Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana and Payal Kapadia are among the 534 artists and executives to have been invited by join as members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) – the organization behind the annual Oscar awards. The Los Angeles-based Academy, announced the 'Oscars' Class of 2025' on Thursday night. While Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan and Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana have been invited to join the Actors' Branch, Cannes 2024 Grand Prix-winning filmmaker Payal Kapadia has received an invitation from the Writers' Branch. "We are thrilled to invite this esteemed class of artists, technologists, and professionals to join the Academy" said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang. "Through their commitment to filmmaking and to the greater movie industry, these exceptionally talented individuals have made indelible contributions to our global filmmaking community," she said in a statement. According to the official website of the Academy, the membership process for its 19 branches and one membership classification is conducted by sponsorship, not application. "Except for Associates, candidates must be sponsored by two Academy members from the branch or category to which the candidate seeks admission. In addition, Academy Award nominees are automatically considered for membership in the year in which they are nominated and do not require sponsors," the organisation stated. In a bid for representation, the Academy has been inducting several Indian film personalities as members in the past few years. Of the 2025 invited class, 41% are women, 45% belong to underrepresented communities, and 55% are from 60 countries and territories outside the United States, the Academy stated. There are 91 Oscar nominees, including 26 winners, and three Scientific and Technical Award winners among the invitees, it said. Last year, veteran actor Shabana Azmi, RRR director SS Rajamouli, producer Ritesh Sidhwani, cinematographer Ravi Varman, Rima Das of Village Rockstars and Naatu Naatu choreographer Prem Rakshith were inducted into the Academy.

<p>While Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan and Bollywood star Ayushmann Khurrana have been invited to join the Actors' Branch, Cannes 2024 Grand Prix-winning filmmaker Payal Kapadia has received an invitation from the Writers' Branch.</p>

Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann Khurrana and Payal Kapadia invited to join Oscars class of 2025

<p>The Supreme Court on Tuesday strongly criticised Karnataka’s ban on the Kamal Haasan-starrer Thug Life and said that mobs cannot dictate film screenings. It also transferred the case to itself and slammed the Karnataka High Court over its suggestion that the actor apologise to resolve the issue.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The apex court also issued a notice in the case of the ban on the release of Kamal Haasan’s Tamil film Thug Life in Karnataka, while criticising groups that threatened to ban the film’s release over some controversial remarks made by the actor.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>‘Groups of hooligans cannot decide what gets screened in theatres’</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The court said that ‘groups of hooligans’ cannot be allowed to decide what gets screened in theatres, and the rule of law cannot be held hostage to mob threats, and warned.</p><p>A bench of Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan strongly criticised groups that threatened to burn down theatres over Haasan’s remarks claiming “Kannada was born from Tamil.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“If someone has made a statement, you counter it with another statement. You cannot threaten to burn down theatres,” the bench remarked.</p><p>It added that the people of Karnataka are free to disagree with Haasan, but fundamental rights must be protected.</p><h2>Why threaten to burn down cinemas?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“If enlightened people of Karnataka and Bengaluru believe his statement was wrong, they can issue a statement saying so. Why threaten to burn down cinemas?”</p><p>The top court transferred the plea filed by the film’s producer from the Karnataka High Court to itself and asked the state government to file its reply. It also questioned the role of the High Court, especially over suggestions that the actor apologise to resolve the issue.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The top court remarked on the Karnataka High Court’s stance of asking for an apology from Haasan over his comment and stated that it had no business doing so.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“There is something wrong with the system when one person makes a statement and everyone gets involved. Why should the High Court say ‘express an apology’? That is not its role,” the court said.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>‘Once a film is cleared by CBFC, it must be released’</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>It emphasised that once a film is cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), it must be allowed to be released. “People can choose not to watch it. But we cannot allow threats and intimidation to decide if a film gets released,” the court added.</p><p>The court also quoted past judgments, including the Bombay High Court verdict in the Mi Nathuram Boltoy play case, and the Imran Pratapgarhi ruling, to support the argument that differing views must be allowed in a democracy.</p><p>Reiterating its role, the court said, “We are the custodians of the rule of law. That is what the Supreme Court is for.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The bench said that the rule of law demands that any film that has a CBFC certificate must be released, and the state has to ensure its screening.&nbsp;</p><p>The court has asked the Karnataka government to file its counter-affidavit by Wednesday, and posted the matter for further hearing on Thursday.</p>

A bench of Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan strongly criticised groups that threatened to burn down theatres over Haasan’s remark that “Kannada was born from Tamil.” “If someone has made a statement, you counter it with another statement. You cannot threaten to burn down theatres,” it said.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday strongly criticised Karnataka’s ban on the Kamal Haasan-starrer Thug Life and said that mobs cannot dictate film screenings. It also transferred the case to itself and slammed the Karnataka High Court over its suggestion that the actor apologise to resolve the issue. The apex court also issued a notice in the case of the ban on the release of Kamal Haasan’s Tamil film Thug Life in Karnataka, while criticising groups that threatened to ban the film’s release over some controversial remarks made by the actor. ‘Groups of hooligans cannot decide what gets screened in theatres’ The court said that ‘groups of hooligans’ cannot be allowed to decide what gets screened in theatres, and the rule of law cannot be held hostage to mob threats, and warned. A bench of Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan strongly criticised groups that threatened to burn down theatres over Haasan’s remarks claiming “Kannada was born from Tamil.” “If someone has made a statement, you counter it with another statement. You cannot threaten to burn down theatres,” the bench remarked. It added that the people of Karnataka are free to disagree with Haasan, but fundamental rights must be protected. Why threaten to burn down cinemas? “If enlightened people of Karnataka and Bengaluru believe his statement was wrong, they can issue a statement saying so. Why threaten to burn down cinemas?” The top court transferred the plea filed by the film’s producer from the Karnataka High Court to itself and asked the state government to file its reply. It also questioned the role of the High Court, especially over suggestions that the actor apologise to resolve the issue. The top court remarked on the Karnataka High Court’s stance of asking for an apology from Haasan over his comment and stated that it had no business doing so. “There is something wrong with the system when one person makes a statement and everyone gets involved. Why should the High Court say ‘express an apology’? That is not its role,” the court said. ‘Once a film is cleared by CBFC, it must be released’ It emphasised that once a film is cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), it must be allowed to be released. “People can choose not to watch it. But we cannot allow threats and intimidation to decide if a film gets released,” the court added. The court also quoted past judgments, including the Bombay High Court verdict in the Mi Nathuram Boltoy play case, and the Imran Pratapgarhi ruling, to support the argument that differing views must be allowed in a democracy. Reiterating its role, the court said, “We are the custodians of the rule of law. That is what the Supreme Court is for.” The bench said that the rule of law demands that any film that has a CBFC certificate must be released, and the state has to ensure its screening. The court has asked the Karnataka government to file its counter-affidavit by Wednesday, and posted the matter for further hearing on Thursday.

<p>A bench of Justices Ujjal Bhuyan and Manmohan strongly criticised groups that threatened to burn down theatres over Haasan’s remark that “Kannada was born from Tamil.” “If someone has made a statement, you counter it with another statement. You cannot threaten to burn down theatres,” it said.</p>

SC slams Thug Life ban, raps Karnataka High Court saying it has no role to demand apology

<p>Kamal Haasan scolded a fan at a party meeting in Chennai on Saturday after a fan insisted they click pictures with the actor holding a sword.&nbsp;The incident happened at the meeting of Kamal's political party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM).</p><h2>Kamal Haasan stops fan from gifting sword</h2><p>In a video shared by<i> PTI</i>, a large number of fans can be seen arriving to meet Kamal Haasan. As he stood on stage, one individual approached him with a sword and attempted to remove it from its scabbard, urging Haasan to pose with it. At first, Kamal was seen smiling and shaking his head as he held the sword, clearly hesitant.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Despite the actor’s reluctance, the fan continued to insist, even attempting to untie the knot on the scabbard. When the individual refused to back down, Kamal appeared visibly irritated and scolded him along with his companions. He was seen gesturing firmly as he addressed the group. A police officer then stepped in to prevent the fan from pressing further.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">VIDEO | Chennai: Actor and MNM Chief Kamal Haasan (<a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ikamalhaasan</a>) gets angry at man who gifts him a sword during party meeting.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KamalHaasan_MP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KamalHaasan_MP</a> <br><br>(Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/n147TvrpG7">https://t.co/n147TvrpG7</a>) <a href="https://t.co/5H9KZXBoEn">pic.twitter.com/5H9KZXBoEn</a></p>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1933837456002175343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Kamal, who is the president of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), and five other members were elected to the Rajya Sabha from Tamil Nadu on Thursday.</p><h2>Controversy surrounding Thug Life</h2><p>Kamal Haasan was last seen in <i>Thug Life</i>, directed by Mani Ratnam. The film received mixed reviews upon release and has so far earned over ₹89 crore($10.3 million) at the box office.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The film also stirred controversy in Karnataka following Kamal’s comments during a promotional event in Chennai. He remarked that “Kannada was born out of Tamil,” a statement that triggered a backlash from pro-Kannada groups who demanded an apology, and blocked the film’s release in the state.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kamal Haasan refused to apologise, stating that his words had been misinterpreted and that he is used to facing such threats.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Kamal Haasan scolded a fan at a party meeting in Chennai on Saturday after a fan insisted they click pictures with the actor holding a sword.

Kamal Haasan scolded a fan at a party meeting in Chennai on Saturday after a fan insisted they click pictures with the actor holding a sword. The incident happened at the meeting of Kamal's political party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM). Kamal Haasan stops fan from gifting sword In a video shared by PTI, a large number of fans can be seen arriving to meet Kamal Haasan. As he stood on stage, one individual approached him with a sword and attempted to remove it from its scabbard, urging Haasan to pose with it. At first, Kamal was seen smiling and shaking his head as he held the sword, clearly hesitant. Despite the actor’s reluctance, the fan continued to insist, even attempting to untie the knot on the scabbard. When the individual refused to back down, Kamal appeared visibly irritated and scolded him along with his companions. He was seen gesturing firmly as he addressed the group. A police officer then stepped in to prevent the fan from pressing further.

<p>Kamal Haasan scolded a fan at a party meeting in Chennai on Saturday after a fan insisted they click pictures with the actor holding a sword.</p>

Kamal Haasan stops fan from gifting sword, scolds him during MNM event

<p>Mani Ratnam’s latest film<i> Thug Life,</i> featuring Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR, and Trisha Krishnan, released across India on June 5, except in Karnataka. The film was banned in the state owing to Kamal Haasan’s controversial remark stating, ‘Karnataka was born out of Tamil.’ As the actor refused to apologise for his statement, saying it was said out of love, local film bodies in Karnataka called for a statewide ban on the film’s release. But according to reports, the ban will lead to an estimated Rs 35-40 crore (Rs 350 million -400 million) loss for the film.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p><i>Thug Life </i>is co-produced by Haasan and Ratnam’s Madras Talkies.&nbsp;</p><h2>How much will the Karnataka ban cost Thug Life?</h2><p>Producer and distributor G Dhananjayan spoke to The Hindu and said that the production of Thug Life will likely lose Rs35-40 crore gross at the box office and Rs12-15 crore (Rs 120 million – 150 million) share to producers due to the missed release in Karnataka.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This calculation was based on how<i> Pushpa 2, Baahubali 2, RRR,</i> and <i>Kalki 2898 AD</i> made in Karnataka alone.&nbsp;</p><p>He said, “With the four Telugu films grossing a total of ₹5832 crore (Rs 58 billion), the Karnataka box office revenue alone amounts to ₹391.20 crore (Rs 3.9 billion) while the north Indian market accounts for ₹2361.60 crore (Rs 23 billion). The Karnataka market accounts for around 7% of the total revenue.”&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Top-grossing Tamil films like <i>Jailer, Leo, Ponniyin Selvan, The GOAT,</i> and <i>Vikram</i> had a major chunk of the market in Karnataka, said the producer, adding, “For Tamil films too, the Karnataka market accounts for 7% of the total revenue.</p><h2>About the language row</h2><p>On 27 May, while promoting<i> Thug Life </i>and calling Kannada film star Shiva Rajkumar his family, Kamal said, “Kannada was born out of Tamil,” sparking uproar. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce threatened to ban the film's release in the state subsequently but the actor refused to apologise and claimed his statement was being misconstrued.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He moved the Karnataka High Court to help with the release, but the court reprimanded the actor and stated that the issue could be solved with a ‘simple apology’ while criticising the actor for not being a linguist or historian.&nbsp;<br><br>Meanwhile, the Tamil Active Film Producers Council has stated that Karnataka stopping or postponing <i>Thug Life’</i>s release will damage the relationship between the two film industries and will have consequences.</p><h2>WION’s review of Thug Life</h2><p>Shomini Sen of WION called the film the ‘most commercial outing’ of Mani Ratnam’s. “<i>Thug Life</i>&nbsp;is not a bad film, per se. However, it’s a film that reunites two legends of Indian cinema, so one would hope for something extraordinary, given their past work.<i>&nbsp;Thug Life</i>&nbsp;unfortunately falls into the usual trappings of a masala potboiler and never elevates itself to be something marvelous.” <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/thug-life-review-kamal-haasan-mani-ratnam-str-release-date-1749116440443">Read full review here</a></p>

Mani Ratnam’s latest film Thug Life, featuring Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR, and Trisha Krishnan, released across India on June 5, except in Karnataka. 

Mani Ratnam’s latest film Thug Life, featuring Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR, and Trisha Krishnan, released across India on June 5, except in Karnataka. The film was banned in the state owing to Kamal Haasan’s controversial remark stating, ‘Karnataka was born out of Tamil.’ As the actor refused to apologise for his statement, saying it was said out of love, local film bodies in Karnataka called for a statewide ban on the film’s release. But according to reports, the ban will lead to an estimated Rs 35-40 crore (Rs 350 million -400 million) loss for the film. Thug Life is co-produced by Haasan and Ratnam’s Madras Talkies. How much will the Karnataka ban cost Thug Life? Producer and distributor G Dhananjayan spoke to The Hindu and said that the production of Thug Life will likely lose Rs35-40 crore gross at the box office and Rs12-15 crore (Rs 120 million – 150 million) share to producers due to the missed release in Karnataka. This calculation was based on how Pushpa 2, Baahubali 2, RRR, and Kalki 2898 AD made in Karnataka alone. He said, “With the four Telugu films grossing a total of ₹5832 crore (Rs 58 billion), the Karnataka box office revenue alone amounts to ₹391.20 crore (Rs 3.9 billion) while the north Indian market accounts for ₹2361.60 crore (Rs 23 billion). The Karnataka market accounts for around 7% of the total revenue.” Top-grossing Tamil films like Jailer, Leo, Ponniyin Selvan, The GOAT, and Vikram had a major chunk of the market in Karnataka, said the producer, adding, “For Tamil films too, the Karnataka market accounts for 7% of the total revenue. About the language row On 27 May, while promoting Thug Life and calling Kannada film star Shiva Rajkumar his family, Kamal said, “Kannada was born out of Tamil,” sparking uproar. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce threatened to ban the film's release in the state subsequently but the actor refused to apologise and claimed his statement was being misconstrued. He moved the Karnataka High Court to help with the release, but the court reprimanded the actor and stated that the issue could be solved with a ‘simple apology’ while criticising the actor for not being a linguist or historian. Meanwhile, the Tamil Active Film Producers Council has stated that Karnataka stopping or postponing Thug Life’s release will damage the relationship between the two film industries and will have consequences. WION’s review of Thug Life Shomini Sen of WION called the film the ‘most commercial outing’ of Mani Ratnam’s. “Thug Life is not a bad film, per se. However, it’s a film that reunites two legends of Indian cinema, so one would hope for something extraordinary, given their past work. Thug Life unfortunately falls into the usual trappings of a masala potboiler and never elevates itself to be something marvelous.” Read full review here

<p>Mani Ratnam’s latest film<i> Thug Life,</i> featuring Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR, and Trisha Krishnan, released across India on June 5, except in Karnataka.&nbsp;</p>

Thug Life’s no show in Karnataka could lead to loss of Rs 350 million, feel trade experts

<p>Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam- two stalwarts coming together in a film is a cinematic event in itself. The highly anticipated film<i> Thug Life,</i> which marks the collaboration of the two legends after 37 years, is finally here.<br><br>Expectations, thus, were high for this one from the time the film was announced. But Haasan, who also serves as a co-writer and co-producer of the film, delivers a middling performance in a formulaic film that is spruced with well-known actors, both from the south as well as the north. Ratnam, who is considered one of the best auteurs in the country, always has managed to make warm, emotional, and gritty dramas. Each of his movies has the distinct mark of the filmmaker, which is hard to emulate. <i>Thug Life</i>, however , seems to be more of a massy drama which doesn’t particularly have any distinct stamp of the filmmaker.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Plot of Thug Life<br>&nbsp;</h2><p>Two brothers, Shakti (Haasan) and Manikyam (Nassar) run a mafia network in New Delhi. During a shootout with the police, Shakti rescues a little boy, Amar, whose father dies during crossfire. Amar ( STR) grows up to be Shakti’s closest aide, who takes the boy home and raises him as his own.&nbsp;Years later, Shakti ends up in jail, and Amar takes control of his empire and wants to make the business grow overseas.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>However, an incident turns Amar and Shakti against each other. While Shakti soon repents and wants to make amends, Amar is consumed by rage and seeks revenge and allies with rivals to bring his mentor down.&nbsp;</p><p>Is Sakti able to save himself, and does Amar get to know details of his past- forms the rest of the story</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What works</h2><p>Expectations are always high from a film that features Kamal Haasan. Haasan plays a man, who holds his loved ones close and is ruthless to his enemies, delivering a convincing act. It isn’t Haasan’s best performance but credit should be given to the man for still being so agile and relevant at 70. The scene stealer, however, is STR, who delivers a strong performance as Amar- a loyal aide to Sakti but who feels he has been betrayed by his mentor.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Ratnam’s frequent collaborator Ravi K Chandran shoots the film beautifully, and some of the panoramic shots are stunning.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>What does not</h2><p>The film is terribly formulaic. At a time when Hindi films are relying heavily on south-inspired action thrillers, one had hoped Ratnam and Haasan would be able to change the narrative. But <i>Thug Life</i> sticks to the usual tropes of action films, where the lead protagonist is presented as larger than life. Haasan’s character is shot at, thrown off a cliff, and even gets caught in the middle of an avalanche, yet he survives. Haasan’s Shakti defies death so much that it would put regular superheroes to shame. At one point, a huge concrete slab falls on Haasan, yet, in the next moment, he is up fighting a man double his size. Nothing can beat him.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>There are continuity issues, too. Simbu, dressed in white pants and a blue shirt, is shown tied on a dusty floor. But as he escapes, not a strand is out of his carefully made man bun, nor are there any creases on his clothes or a spec of dust. Unbelievable.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>These flaws could be overlooked, if the plot was more solid. Almost at the beginning of the second half, you know how the film will pan out. The plot truly is wafer-thin, which only wants to make Haasan look like a superhero. As a result, a lot of the actors are wasted. Abhirami holds her own as Jeeva, Shakti’s wife. Trisha is wasted, so are Ali Fazal and Mahesh Manjrekar, who only have two scenes in total. Even STR fades away in the middle of the second half, only to reappear near the climax.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The women in Mani Ratnam's films are usually so well presented and often play an integral part of the story. They are usually strong individuals. However, in Thug Life, they are all shown to be dependent on the men. Be the mistress, who moves from one man to another's house and has no identity of herself, the wife who rallies around the husband and only worries of his well being, to the daughter who needs consent of the father, or the ex wife who needs father-in-law to get a divorce from the husband. The women are never on their own.&nbsp;</p><h2>Final verdict</h2><p><i>Thug Life</i> is not a bad film, per se. However, it’s a film that reunites two legends of Indian cinema, so one would hope for something extraordinary, given their past work.<i> Thug Life</i> unfortunately falls into the usual trappings of a masala potboiler and never elevates itself to be something marvelous. It's a cinematic version of <i>Mirzapur, </i>where everyone is eyeing the hot seat and thus, trying to outdo the other person. And because most of us have watched the web series, <i>Thug Life </i>doesn't offer us anything new.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>Thug Life </i>has been released in theatres across the country on June 5.&nbsp;</p>

The highly anticipated film Thug Life, which marks the collaboration of Haasan and Ratnam after 37 years, is finally here. 
Expectations, thus, were high for this one from the time the film was announced. 

Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam- two stalwarts coming together in a film is a cinematic event in itself. The highly anticipated film Thug Life, which marks the collaboration of the two legends after 37 years, is finally here. Expectations, thus, were high for this one from the time the film was announced. But Haasan, who also serves as a co-writer and co-producer of the film, delivers a middling performance in a formulaic film that is spruced with well-known actors, both from the south as well as the north. Ratnam, who is considered one of the best auteurs in the country, always has managed to make warm, emotional, and gritty dramas. Each of his movies has the distinct mark of the filmmaker, which is hard to emulate. Thug Life, however , seems to be more of a massy drama which doesn’t particularly have any distinct stamp of the filmmaker. Plot of Thug Life Two brothers, Shakti (Haasan) and Manikyam (Nassar) run a mafia network in New Delhi. During a shootout with the police, Shakti rescues a little boy, Amar, whose father dies during crossfire. Amar ( STR) grows up to be Shakti’s closest aide, who takes the boy home and raises him as his own. Years later, Shakti ends up in jail, and Amar takes control of his empire and wants to make the business grow overseas. However, an incident turns Amar and Shakti against each other. While Shakti soon repents and wants to make amends, Amar is consumed by rage and seeks revenge and allies with rivals to bring his mentor down. Is Sakti able to save himself, and does Amar get to know details of his past- forms the rest of the story What works Expectations are always high from a film that features Kamal Haasan. Haasan plays a man, who holds his loved ones close and is ruthless to his enemies, delivering a convincing act. It isn’t Haasan’s best performance but credit should be given to the man for still being so agile and relevant at 70. The scene stealer, however, is STR, who delivers a strong performance as Amar- a loyal aide to Sakti but who feels he has been betrayed by his mentor. Ratnam’s frequent collaborator Ravi K Chandran shoots the film beautifully, and some of the panoramic shots are stunning. What does not The film is terribly formulaic. At a time when Hindi films are relying heavily on south-inspired action thrillers, one had hoped Ratnam and Haasan would be able to change the narrative. But Thug Life sticks to the usual tropes of action films, where the lead protagonist is presented as larger than life. Haasan’s character is shot at, thrown off a cliff, and even gets caught in the middle of an avalanche, yet he survives. Haasan’s Shakti defies death so much that it would put regular superheroes to shame. At one point, a huge concrete slab falls on Haasan, yet, in the next moment, he is up fighting a man double his size. Nothing can beat him. There are continuity issues, too. Simbu, dressed in white pants and a blue shirt, is shown tied on a dusty floor. But as he escapes, not a strand is out of his carefully made man bun, nor are there any creases on his clothes or a spec of dust. Unbelievable. These flaws could be overlooked, if the plot was more solid. Almost at the beginning of the second half, you know how the film will pan out. The plot truly is wafer-thin, which only wants to make Haasan look like a superhero. As a result, a lot of the actors are wasted. Abhirami holds her own as Jeeva, Shakti’s wife. Trisha is wasted, so are Ali Fazal and Mahesh Manjrekar, who only have two scenes in total. Even STR fades away in the middle of the second half, only to reappear near the climax. The women in Mani Ratnam's films are usually so well presented and often play an integral part of the story. They are usually strong individuals. However, in Thug Life, they are all shown to be dependent on the men. Be the mistress, who moves from one man to another's house and has no identity of herself, the wife who rallies around the husband and only worries of his well being, to the daughter who needs consent of the father, or the ex wife who needs father-in-law to get a divorce from the husband. The women are never on their own. Final verdict Thug Life is not a bad film, per se. However, it’s a film that reunites two legends of Indian cinema, so one would hope for something extraordinary, given their past work. Thug Life unfortunately falls into the usual trappings of a masala potboiler and never elevates itself to be something marvelous. It's a cinematic version of Mirzapur, where everyone is eyeing the hot seat and thus, trying to outdo the other person. And because most of us have watched the web series, Thug Life doesn't offer us anything new. Thug Life has been released in theatres across the country on June 5.

<p>The highly anticipated film<i> Thug Life,</i> which marks the collaboration of Haasan and Ratnam after 37 years, is finally here.&nbsp;<br>Expectations, thus, were high for this one from the time the film was announced.&nbsp;</p>

Thug Life review: Kamal Haasan defies death and logic in Mani Ratnam’s most commercial outing to date

<p>Kamal Haasan shared he was deeply saddened to hear about the stampede outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The incident happened when Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrated their maiden IPL title win in 18 years, which led to 11 people being crushed to death and another 47 injured following a stampede on Wednesday evening.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Taking to X, Kamal Haasan said, "Heart-wrenching tragedy in Bangalore. Deeply distressed and my heart reaches out to the families of the victims in this moment of grief. May the injured recover soon."</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Heart wrenching tragedy in Bangalore. Deeply distressed and my heart reaches out to the families of the victims in this moment of grief. May the injured recover soon.</p>&mdash; Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) <a href="https://twitter.com/ikamalhaasan/status/1930329566536667422?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Language controversy over Kannada comments</h2><p>Kamal Haasan has been the centre of controversy due to his comments about the Kannada language during a promotional event in Chennai for his new film <i>Thug Life,</i> where he said “Kannada was born out of Tamil”. This led to a lot of backlash from pro-Kannada groups who demanded an apology from the actor or risked the movie getting its release banned in the state.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Kamal has refused to apologise and said that his words were misinterpreted and that he is used to threats. Back in 2013, his film <i>Vishwaroopam</i> faced a two-week ban in Tamil Nadu and a delayed release in several states due to the film's subject matter.</p><h2>Thug Life release postponed</h2><p>The release of <i>Thug Life</i>, which was originally scheduled for a nationwide release on June 5th, has been pushed back indefinitely in Karnataka. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has stated that they are open to talking with Kamal Haasan to resolve the issue peacefully and ensure the movie gets released in Karnataka.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>Thug Life</i> reunites Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam after nearly four decades. They last worked together in the 1987 crime drama <i>Nayakan.</i></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The film boasts an ensemble star cast that includes Silambarasan STR, Trisha Krishnan, Sanya Malhotra, Pankaj Tripathi, and Ali Fazal. <i>Thug Life</i> will be released in all major Indian languages and hit theatres worldwide on June 5, 2025.<br>&nbsp;</p>

Kamal Haasan shared he was deeply saddened to hear about the stampede outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The incident happened when Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrated their maiden IPL title win in 18 years.

Kamal Haasan shared he was deeply saddened to hear about the stampede outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The incident happened when Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrated their maiden IPL title win in 18 years, which led to 11 people being crushed to death and another 47 injured following a stampede on Wednesday evening. Taking to X, Kamal Haasan said, "Heart-wrenching tragedy in Bangalore. Deeply distressed and my heart reaches out to the families of the victims in this moment of grief. May the injured recover soon."

<p>Kamal Haasan shared he was deeply saddened to hear about the stampede outside the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The incident happened when Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrated their maiden IPL title win in 18 years.</p>

Kamal Haasan reacts to Bengaluru stampede during RCB parade: 'Heart reaches out'

kamal-haasan

Kamal Haasan, News on Kamal Haasan, stories on Kamal Haasan, articles on Kamal Haasan, Kamal Haasan stories at Wion, Kamal Haasan news, Kamal Haasan latest news

kamal haasan

100-yr story of Essel group and journey of India are similar: Kamal Haasan at Essel100

Kamal Haasan opens up about youth protests, says 'Glad to see dialogue...

Kamal Haasan reacts to CJP protests, says 'the country must now do its duty'

Why Kamal Haasan walked away from Bollywood: 'Too many underworld connections'

Rajinikanth reveals why Dharman went through four directors

Dharman: Rajinikanth's FIRST look unveiled from Kamal Haasan's next film

Vijay Sethupathi seeks two major changes from CM Vijay for Tamil film industry

Kamal Haasan backs PM Modi’s energy conservation call amid crises in West Asia

Kamal Haasan skips charter jet, flies economy for Kalki 2 shoot

Kamal Haasan meets CM Vijay, seeks major reforms in Tamil film industry

Kamal Haasan pens letter on rising costs in industry, production house supports

Kamal Haasan praises CM Vijay’s move to shut down liquor shops

Vijay, MGR & more: South Indian stars who turned fan power into political legacy

Yugi Sethu calls Kamal Haasan 'highest-paid actor in India', reveals his massive fee for Kalki 2898 AD

KH vs RK: Revisiting Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan’s films together

Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan reunite on screen! First promo of KH x RK is out

Kamal Haasan warns of massive SIR discrepancies in Rajya Sabha maiden speech

Kamal Haasan speaks out on film certification processes amid Jana Nayagan row

Kamal Haasan admits he feels proud of landing a ‘government job’

Not Vijay but Kamal Haasan lists this as his biggest political enemy

Happy Birthday Kamal Haasan: 4 OTT films showcasing the actor in negative roles

Rajinikanth's next film Thalaivar 173 will be produced by Kamal Haasan

Kamal Haasan was in love with Aparna Sen, learnt Bengali to impress her

Kamal Haasan meets PM Modi, urges for antiquity for Keeladi village

Kamal Haasan takes oath as Rajya Sabha MP in Tamil, marks Parliament debut

Kamal Haasan, Ayushmann and Payal Kapadia invited to join Oscars' class of 2025