Kamal Haasan
– Photo: ANI
Expansion
Veteran actor Kamal Haasan on Monday announced giving up titles like ‘Ulga Nayakan’ (universal hero). He said on Monday that cinema is bigger than any individual and he has always been learning here. That is why he is announcing his decision to give up titles like ‘Ulaganayagan’. He said he can now be addressed by his name or simply ‘KH’. The Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) president said he always felt deeply grateful to be honored with such titles.
‘Really happy with your love’
The actor said in a statement that such accolades, given by the people and respected colleagues-fans, have always been humbling. I am truly humbled by your love. The actor said that artists should not be placed above art. I always like to be aware of my shortcomings and my duty to improve. Therefore after much consideration I feel bound to respectfully drop all such titles or prefixes.
‘Call Kamal Haasan or Kamal or KH’
He requested his fans, members of the film fraternity, media, party workers and colleagues to address him only as Kamal Haasan or Kamal or KH. Other titles given to Haasan include ‘Kalai Gyani’. It means a person talented in art. Many fans also address him as ‘Sagalakala Vallavan’ to praise him for his amazing versatility. MNM workers call him ‘Nammavar’, which means ‘our man.’
‘Cinema is bigger than any one person’
Apart from this, Haasan said on his decision that cinema is bigger than any one person. I am just a student who wishes to learn and grow more and more from that art or cinema. Like other art forms, cinema is also for everyone. It belongs to everyone and is a collaboration of countless artists, technicians and audiences that make it what it is – a true reflection of humanity’s diverse, rich and ever-evolving stories.