When legendary actress Vyjayanthimala turned down Kamal Haasan and Rajinikanth

Vyjayanthimala had a glorious career! The legendary actress not only mesmerised her audience but reigned supreme in the entertainment industry for decades. However, the entrancing star hung up her boots in 1970, after the film Ganwaar with Rajendra Kumar as her co-star. Though many have tried to coax her back onto the big screen, Vyjayanthimala, now a sprightly 81-year-old, can’t be persuaded.

The latest person who’s tried and failed to bring her back is none other than actor Kamal Haasan, who had hopes of featuring her in his film Vishwaroopam 2. When asked about it, she gives out a throaty laugh and says, “Yes, Kamal was very insistent. He came all the way home to meet me. I am very fond of him. But when he spoke of the role, I said, ‘Kamal, you know I gave up acting long ago. Once I make up my mind I don’t go back. So sorry.’ I was sad to turn him down.”
As it turns out, Kamal isn’t the only superstar she has refused. Even superstar Rajinikanth has failed to bring her out of retirement.

“Rajnikanth is a very dear friend and someone I truly admire. He has asked me many times to do films. I was so happy when, at a public gathering, Rajni said, ‘Look at this lady. No amount of money can tempt her back to the arclights.’ I somewhere feel people respect you if you stick to your principles,” she declares.