Kamal Haasan, a name that resonates across the Indian film industry, is renowned for his multifaceted talents as an actor, filmmaker, and screenwriter. Born on November 7, 1954, in Paramakudi, Tamil Nadu, India, Kamal Haasan’s career spans over five decades, earning him the title of “Ulaga Nayagan” (Universal Hero) among his fans and peers.
Name | Kamal Haasan |
---|---|
Full Name | Parthasarathy Srinivasan |
Date of Birth | November 7, 1954 |
Place of Birth | Paramakudi, Tamil Nadu, India |
Occupation | Actor, Producer, Director, Screenwriter, Playback Singer, Lyricist, Choreographer |
Years Active | 1959 – Present |
Nationality | Indian |
Spouse(s) | Vani Ganapathy (m. 1978–1988), Sarika Thakur (m. 1988–2004) |
Children | Shruti Haasan, Akshara Haasan |
Known For | Versatile acting skills, iconic roles across multiple Indian film industries |
Film Debut | “Kalathur Kannamma” (1959) |
Awards | Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, National Film Awards, Filmfare Awards, Tamil Nadu State Film Awards, and many more |
Popular Films | “Nayagan,” “Moondram Pirai,” “Hey Ram,” “Indian,” “Dasavathaaram” |
Early Life and Entry into Cinema
Family Background: Kamal Haasan was born into a Tamil Brahmin family to D. Srinivasan, a lawyer, and Rajalakshmi, a housewife. His upbringing in a culturally rich environment laid the foundation for his passion for cinema and the performing arts.
Debut in Films: His foray into cinema happened at the tender age of four when he appeared in the film “Kalathur Kannamma” (1959). However, his breakthrough as a lead actor came with “Arangetram” (1973), marking the beginning of an illustrious career.
Evolution as an Actor
Kamal Haasan’s career is a testament to his versatility, seamlessly transitioning between genres and characters.
Acting Prowess
Known for his remarkable acting prowess, Kamal Haasan has portrayed an array of roles, spanning from intense dramas to rib-tickling comedies. His ability to delve into the skin of diverse characters remains unparalleled in Indian cinema.
Notable Films
- Moondram Pirai (1982): His portrayal of a teacher taking care of an amnesiac girl in this poignant film earned critical acclaim.
- Nayagan (1987): Considered a milestone in his career, his role as a Mumbai don earned him widespread recognition.
- Indian (1996): Kamal Haasan’s portrayal of an aged vigilante fighting corruption resonated with audiences.
Directorial Ventures
Apart from acting, Kamal Haasan ventured into directing films, showcasing his storytelling finesse. His directorial ventures like “Hey Ram” (2000) and “Vishwaroopam” (2013) earned praise for their narrative depth and technical brilliance.
Contributions Beyond Cinema
Social Initiatives
Kamal Haasan is not just a prolific artist but also an advocate for societal change. He has been actively involved in various social causes, using his influence to address pertinent issues.
“Art has no boundaries. It doesn’t see race, religion, or language.” – Kamal Haasan
Political Stint
In recent years, Kamal Haasan took a plunge into politics, establishing the Makkal Needhi Maiam (People’s Justice Centre) party. His entry into politics aimed to bring about positive reforms and governance in Tamil Nadu.
Legacy and Awards
Kamal Haasan’s impact on Indian cinema is immeasurable, earning him numerous accolades, including several National Film Awards and Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award. His contributions to the world of entertainment continue to inspire budding actors and filmmakers.
Filmography Highlights
Year | Film | Role |
---|---|---|
1959 | Kalathur Kannamma | Child artist |
1973 | Arangetram | Lead actor |
1982 | Moondram Pirai | Protagonist |
1987 | Nayagan | Mumbai don |
1996 | Indian | Vigilante fighting corruption |
2000 | Hey Ram | Director, Lead actor |
2013 | Vishwaroopam | Director, Lead actor |
Awards and Recognition
Award | Year | Category |
---|---|---|
National Film Awards | Various | Best Actor, Best Director |
Padma Bhushan | 2014 | Civilian Award |
Filmfare Awards | Various | Best Actor, Best Director |
Conclusion
Kamal Haasan’s journey from a child artist to a legendary figure in Indian cinema reflects not just his talent but also his relentless passion for the art of storytelling. His ability to immerse himself into multifaceted roles and his unwavering dedication to social causes solidify his place as an icon, transcending the realms of stardom.