From the golden age of Tamil cinema to today’s digital era, the industry has long been known for bestowing grand titles upon its stars. These honorifics have become an intrinsic part of the South Indian film industry, acting as both a symbol of respect and a mark of reverence for those who have left an indelible impact on the audience. Whether it’s the legendary M.G. Ramachandran being celebrated as ‘Makkal Thilagam’ (People’s Leader) or Rajinikanth earning the moniker ‘Superstar,’ Tamil cinema has always loved elevating its stars with iconic titles. Among these celebrated figures is Kamal Haasan, who was affectionately called ‘Ulaganayagan’ (Universal Hero) for over two decades, a title that signifies his reach and impact beyond regional boundaries.
However, in a recent heartfelt announcement, just days after his 70th birthday, Kamal Haasan has made the surprising decision to let go of the ‘Ulaganayagan’ title. In an official statement, the actor-politician expressed his gratitude for the love and admiration that led to him receiving the honorific but urged his fans, media, and the film fraternity to refrain from using the title moving forward. He emphasized that his journey as an artist is one of continuous learning and growth, and he believes the art should always hold precedence over the artist.
Kamal Haasan’s Statement: A Reflection on Fame and Humility
Kamal Haasan’s statement reflects his deep appreciation for the love and respect he has received from fans, peers, and the media over the years. “I have always felt a deep sense of gratitude over being bestowed with endearing titles such as Ulaganayagan among others,” he shared. The 70-year-old actor acknowledged that the accolades and titles conferred upon him by the public and his colleagues have always humbled him and served as a reminder of the affection he has garnered throughout his career. Yet, his statement indicates a personal journey towards grounding himself as he evolves in his artistic endeavors.
In the statement, Kamal Haasan elaborated on his philosophy, emphasizing the collaborative nature of cinema. “Cinema belongs to all,” he wrote, “It is the combined effort of hundreds, if not thousands, of individuals who work tirelessly to bring a story to life on screen. From the audience to the filmmakers, from technicians to actors, everyone contributes equally to the final piece of art.” This perspective showcases his respect for the medium and his belief that no individual should overshadow the art itself.
He added, “It is my humble belief that the artist must not be elevated above the art. I prefer to remain grounded, constantly aware of my imperfections and my duty to improve.” This profound statement reflects Kamal’s commitment to continual self-improvement and humility, values he has upheld throughout his illustrious career. By declining the title of ‘Ulaganayagan,’ Kamal Haasan aims to break down the perceived barrier between the star and his craft, reinforcing that he is, first and foremost, a passionate lover of cinema.
Kamal’s Request to Fans, Media, and the Film Fraternity
In his message, Kamal Haasan extended a humble request to all his fans, the media, members of the film fraternity, and his political cadre to address him simply as “Kamal Haasan,” “Kamal,” or “KH” going forward. He believes that the decision to forgo the ‘Ulaganayagan’ tag aligns with his journey as an artist and his quest to evolve continuously. The actor explained that after much reflection, he feels compelled to “respectfully decline all such titles or prefixes,” as they can sometimes create an artificial distance between the artist and the craft.
The actor’s appeal to drop the title signifies a shift in his relationship with his own identity and the persona that has been crafted around him over decades. This move is not only a statement about his humility but also a reminder to his fans and the industry that his primary identity is that of an artist dedicated to his craft.
A Growing Trend: Tamil Stars Shedding Their Titles
Interestingly, Kamal Haasan is not the first Tamil superstar to make such a request. In 2021, fellow actor Ajith Kumar issued a similar statement urging fans and the media to stop referring to him as “Thala” (a term meaning “Leader”) and instead call him simply “Ajith” or “AK.” This trend indicates a shift in how major stars of Tamil cinema perceive their public image and highlights their desire to connect with their audience in a more authentic, unembellished way.
Titles and honorifics have long been a part of the Tamil film industry’s culture, but recent years have seen a new wave of stars attempting to distance themselves from these labels. This change seems to reflect a growing sentiment among artists to prioritize their craft over the mythos surrounding their stardom. By letting go of these titles, actors like Kamal Haasan and Ajith Kumar are sending a message that transcends personal branding and speaks to the spirit of cinema as a communal experience.
Kamal Haasan’s Legacy in Indian Cinema
With a career spanning more than six decades, Kamal Haasan is celebrated as one of the most versatile actors in Indian cinema. Known for his roles in films such as Nayakan, Moondram Pirai, Hey Ram, and Vishwaroopam, Kamal’s contribution to cinema is unparalleled. He has never shied away from taking on challenging roles, experimenting with genres, or addressing social issues through his films. His legacy as an actor, director, and producer has inspired generations, and his influence extends beyond Tamil cinema to the entire Indian film industry.
Kamal’s decision to relinquish his title is in line with his unique approach to cinema. Unlike many stars who lean into their on-screen personas, Kamal has always maintained a clear distinction between his real self and the characters he portrays. His recent request underscores his philosophy that fame should not distract from the art itself.
Upcoming Projects and Continuing Journey
Despite stepping away from the “Ulaganayagan” tag, Kamal Haasan remains as active as ever in the film industry. Recently, he was seen in the much-awaited Indian 2, which rekindled his collaboration with director Shankar. Additionally, he has completed shooting for Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, which is scheduled for release on June 5, 2025. The actor-politician, currently in the United States, is expected to return next year to start work on a project led by the action choreographer duo Anbariv.
His continued involvement in both mainstream and experimental cinema exemplifies his dedication to pushing boundaries, both in his craft and the themes he chooses to explore. Kamal Haasan’s desire to forgo his title is a reminder that, for him, the journey of self-discovery and artistic expression remains paramount.
A Humble Thank You to Fans
In his closing remarks, Kamal Haasan expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported him over the years. Thanking fans, colleagues, and the media, he acknowledged the overwhelming love he has received and explained that his decision to relinquish the title came from a place of humility. For Kamal, being part of cinema is a privilege, and he hopes to continue inspiring audiences as “one of the many lovers of cinema.”
Kamal’s announcement is a powerful statement on the importance of humility in the face of fame. By letting go of the ‘Ulaganayagan’ title, he reminds his admirers that, above all, he remains a lifelong student of cinema. This decision further solidifies his legacy, not only as a cinematic legend but as a humble artist who chooses to let his work speak for itself.