Kamal Haasan, with over six decades in cinema, has worn many hats — actor, director, writer, dancer, and more. But despite his achievements, he admits to a pause in learning, blaming it on greed. I like money. I wanted it to come to me, he says with honesty.
Starting his career at just three, Haasan has constantly evolved to keep pace with changing times. Yet, he confesses that stardom can be isolating. You don’t hear real applause or criticism. Everything comes filtered, and arrogance creeps in, he shares.
Haasan reflects on fame, saying that success is fleeting. Quoting his favorite writer Jayakanthan, he believes one shouldn’t cling to past glory. You become eccentric trying to stay on top, he says.
Despite his incredible journey, Haasan hopes to be remembered — even if vaguely. People might confuse me for someone else, and I’d be fine with that, he laughs.
His love for learning never faded. Last year, he spent months in the U.S. studying artificial intelligence. He recalls his early complacency as a child prodigy, which quickly faded when he met more talented peers in theatre.
Haasan is now gearing up for Thug Life, reuniting with director Mani Ratnam after 38 years. The two share a long friendship that made collaboration smooth, even without set rules.
As for slowing down? Age will tell me when. Achievements won’t, he says — proving that even after 230 films, he’s still hungry for more.
'Thug Life' posters torn amid Kamal Haasan remark row
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Kamal Haasan’s recent comment about Kannada’s origin has sparked a controversy in Karnataka. At the Thug Life audio launch in Chennai, Haasan said, Kannada was born from Tamil, which upset pro-Kannada groups. They found the statement disrespectful and have since launched protests, tearing down Thug Life posters across the state.
The film, directed by Mani Ratnam and starring Haasan, is now facing backlash, with groups like Kannada Rakshana Vedike demanding an apology. Their leader, Praveen Shetty, accused Haasan of insulting Kannada culture while trying to benefit from the state’s audience. He warned that the film could be banned in Karnataka if the issue isn't addressed.
The audio launch, held on May 24, featured music by A.R. Rahman and included Kannada star Shiva Rajkumar as a surprise guest. Despite Shiva’s warm presence and apparent agreement, Haasan’s remark has put the film’s June 5 Karnataka release at risk due to rising tensions.