In a recent heartfelt statement, veteran actor Kamal Haasan has requested that people no longer address him with titles or honorifics such as “Ulaganayagan” (World Hero). In a detailed message shared in both English and Tamil, Haasan expressed his gratitude for the admiration shown through these titles but clarified his belief that the artist should remain secondary to the art. He sees himself as an eternal student of cinema, continually learning and growing in his craft, and he emphasized that cinema itself is a collaborative endeavor involving numerous artists, technicians, and audiences.
Haasan further encouraged everyone—including his fans, media, industry peers, and political followers—to simply call him Kamal Haasan, Kamal, or KH. This request reflects his desire to stay grounded and maintain focus on his work without any additional titles. The esteemed actor also expressed his deep appreciation for his supporters, acknowledging the steadfast kindness he has received over the years.
“I have always felt a deep sense of gratitude over being bestowed with endearing titles such as Ulaganayagan, among others,” Haasan remarked in his statement. “Such accolades, given by the people and recognized by esteemed colleagues and admirers, have always been humbling, and I’ve been genuinely moved by your love in conferring it upon me.”
He went on to elaborate on his approach to cinema, describing it as a form of expression that transcends any single individual and belongs to all. “The art of cinema transcends beyond any one individual, and I am but a student of the craft, forever hoping to evolve, learn, and grow. Cinema, like any other form of creative expression, belongs to all. It is the collaboration of countless artists, technicians, and audiences who make it what it is—a true reflection of humanity’s diverse, rich, and ever-evolving stories,” Haasan added.
In conclusion, he conveyed his hope that everyone would honor his request, as it is rooted in humility and a commitment to his craft. “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,” he explained. “Hence, after considerable reflection, I feel compelled to respectfully decline all such titles or prefixes. I humbly request that all my fans, the media, members of the film fraternity, party cadre, and fellow Indians, to here on after, refer to me simply as Kamal Haasan or Kamal or KH. Thank you again for your gestures of kindness over the years. Please know that this decision comes from a place of humility and a desire to remain true to my roots and purpose, to always be one among all of us—the lovers of this beautiful artform.”
This decision by Haasan echoes a similar request made by actor Ajith in the past, who asked fans to call him AK or Ajith Kumar rather than his popular title, “Thala.”
On the professional front, Kamal Haasan will next appear in the movie Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam. He is also involved in other projects with filmmakers Anbarivu and H. Vinoth.
