Kamal Haasan tells people, fans to not address him as 'Ulaga Nayagan'
Chennai (PTI): Asserting that cinema is bigger than any individual and that he remained a student, renowned actor Kamal Haasan on Monday announced his decision to renounce titles such as 'Ulaga Nayagan' (universal hero) bestowed on him and said he may be addressed by his name, or simply KH.
Haasan, also the president of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), a party he founded in 2018, said he had always felt a deep sense of gratitude over being bestowed with endearing titles.
"Such accolades, given by the people and recognised by esteemed colleagues and admirers, has always been humbling and I have been genuinely moved by your love in conferring it upon me," the actor said in a statement.
The top actor said it was his humble belief that artists 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."
He requested that his fans, members of the film fraternity, media, party cadres and 'fellow Indians,' to refer to him 'simply as Kamal Haasan or Kamal or KH.'
Other titles bestowed on Haasan in the past includes 'Kalai Gyani,' which means a genius in the arts. Also, several admirers address him as 'Sagalakala vallavan,' to praise him for his astonishing versatility. MNM cadres hail him as 'Nammavar,' which means 'our man.'
Furthermore, on his decision, Haasan said that cinema was bigger than any single individual. "I am only a student desirous of learning more and more from that art (cinema) and evolve. Like other art forms, cinema is also for all."
It belongs to all and 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.
Thanking all for their 'gestures of kindness' over the years, he said: "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."
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Vijay secures majority support, set to stake claim to form Tamil Nadu govt
Chennai: After four days of political uncertainty and intense negotiations in Tamil Nadu, actor-politician Vijay is learnt to have secured the numbers required to form the government, sources said.
Supporters gathered outside Vijay’s residence in Chennai on Friday evening, raising slogans in support of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam soon after reports emerged that the party had managed to secure majority support.
Sources said Vijay is expected to meet Tamil Nadu Governor R. V. Arlekar on Friday evening to stake claim to form the government. The meeting is likely to take place around 6 pm.
In its electoral debut in the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, TVK won 108 out of the 234 seats, dealing a major blow to the 62-year political dominance of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam.
However, Governor Arlekar had reportedly made it clear that the party would not be invited to form the government without proving a clear majority. Even after two rounds of discussions on Wednesday and Thursday, the Governor is learnt to have maintained his stand that letters of support from at least 118 MLAs must be submitted in the 234-member Assembly.
Apart from Vijay, TVK had the backing of 107 MLAs. Vijay had contested from Tiruchy (East) and Perambur constituencies and won both seats, meaning he would have to resign from one seat before taking oath. This increased the need for additional support.
Amid the political developments, five MLAs from the Congress party, which reportedly moved away from the DMK-led alliance, extended support to Vijay. Vijay also held discussions with leaders of Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi, Communist Party of India (Marxist) and Communist Party of India.
The VCK, CPI(M) and CPI had so far been allies of the DMK. At the same time, political discussions intensified in the state over speculation that the DMK could even explore a post-poll understanding with its long-time rival AIADMK to prevent an alternative government from taking shape.
Reports had been circulating since Friday afternoon that the VCK and Left parties were likely to support Vijay. Sources later said that the VCK, CPI(M) and CPI agreed to extend the support of two MLAs each, helping TVK cross the required majority mark.
All eyes are now on the Governor’s next move and the official announcement regarding the formation of the new government in Tamil Nadu.
