Chennai: Actor-politician Kamal Haasan on Monday decided up to give up all the honorifics and titles appealed to his fans, media and admirers to discard by addressing him with the sobriquet or prefix 'Ulaganayagan" (Global Hero) and said he was only Kamal.
In a statement posted on his social media, the founder of political party Makkal Needhi Maiam
(MNM) said "I have always felt a deep sense of gratitude over being bestowed with endearing
titles such as 'Ulaganayagan', among others."
Such accolades, given by the people and recognised by esteemed colleagues and admirers, has always been humbling and I've been genuinely moved by your love in conferring it upon me, the actor said.
"The art of cinema transcends barriers and the individual and I am but a student of the craft, forever hoping to evolve, learn and grow", he said.
Kamal said cinema like any other form or creative expression, belongs to all. It is the collaboration of countless artists, technicians and audience who make it what it is--a true reflection of humanity's diverse, rich and ever-evolving stories.
"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. Hence after considerable reflection, I feel compelled to respectfully decline all such titles or prefixes", Kamal told his fans and admirers.
"I humbly request that all my fans, the media, members of film fraternity, party cadre and fellow Indians to here on after, refer to me simply as Kamal Haasan or Kamal or KH", he added.
"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, he said.
It may be noted that for over a quarter century Kamal was addressed as ‘Ulaga Nayagan’ (global hero), a title given to him by acclaimed director KS Ravikumar in the romantic comedy film “Thenali” (2004). in which Kamal played a Sri Lankan Tamil refugee.
Since Kamal made Ravikumar as a producer and for that gratitude that he accorded the title to the versatile actor.
Previously, he was given the title ‘Kalai Gnani’ (learned/scholarly artist) by the late Dravidian
patriarch and former Chief Minister M Karunanidhi. And in the 1970s and 80s, as the flamboyant and chivalrous hero he was known as the 'Kaathal Ilavarasan' (‘Prince of Love’).