Don’t call me Ulaganayagan, says Kamal

Don’t call me Ulaganayagan, says Kamal

Kamal Haasan The Hindu Bureau

CHENNAI 12.11.2024 

Actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam founder Kamal Haasan on Monday said that he would not like to be addressed with titles or prefixes such as Ulaganayagan, which his fans and the Tamil film industry have bestowed on him over the years. He said he would prefer to be called Kamal Haasan, KH, or Kamal.

In a statement, Mr. Haasan said that while titles such as Ulaganayagan had “been always humbling”, and that he was “moved” by them, “the artist must not be elevated above the art”.

While titles and prefixes for actors are common in Tamil cinema, actor Ajith Kumar had also requested people not to call him Thala.

“The art of cinema transcends beyond any 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,” Mr. Haasan said.

“I prefer to remain grounded, constantly aware of my imperfections and my duty to improve. Hence, after considerable reflection, I feel compelled to respectfully decline all such titles or prefixes,” he said.