‘Let the mystery about me remain’

It was exactly a year ago that the legendary actor/filmmaker Kamal Haasan met the media for the Vishwaroopam controversy at his Eldams Road office (which was his residence till he joined films) in Chennai.

Once again, Kamal met the media, this time around for a joyful reason. The star, known for his prolific work across the southern languages as well as Bollywood, was honoured with the Padma Bhushan on the occasion of the 65th Republic Day. The 59-year-old actor who has contributed to Indian cinema for more than five decades feels that ‘the award is an impetus to do more good work’.

Having started his career at the tender age of four in Kalathur Kannamma, Kamal won the President’s gold medal for his acting. Dedicating the Padma Bhushan to his gurus, father and other family members, the multifaceted personality shares his views on various issues, including what awards mean to him.

Should do more to deserve the Padma Bhushan
It is a big honour! India has great talents in many fields, many more talented people than me who deserve this award. I am not saying this to appease the critics. So many people who taught me did not get it and some have even passed away without getting it. I feel that it is not for what I have done so far, but it is an impetus to do more good work.

Sachin Tendulkar, who played for 25 years, was awarded the Bharat Ratna. You have been working for more than 50 years 
(Laughs) It’s like fighting for freedom. One should not ask remuneration for that. If I get it it’s okay; or else too, it’s fine! Like how the people of India recognised my talents and gave me this award, they will choose me for other awards as well in future.

Has Rajini congratulated you?
He is yet to call. But I know he will at his own pace.

Mentors and family:
I dedicate this award to all who have been there behind me right from my young age; my gurus from whom I have learnt many things. Some have not even taken money for teaching but have given me money instead, like Shanmugham Annachi and K.Balachander sir. I am so indebted to them all. To my father and brothers who were very supportive and encouraging all the time.  All the laurels that I have acquired so far can solely be credited to my teachers and family, whereas deeds that have bestowed infamy on me are because of me alone. 

On Oscars: 
To do business, only ISI is important in India, USI is not required!

Honour for my fans: 
I am happy that I am a fulcrum for my fans to perform social service activities. My search will never end. It’s more like hunger. In this ever-changing world, my journey towards excellence and perfection will never cease.

I am always ‘the same’: 
Bouquets and brickbats don’t make any difference to me. (Pointing to the staircase from where he is giving the interview), “When I was a small boy, I used to sit here and wonder if I would make it in films. This is the same place where I cried when I lost my parents, and last year, I addressed everybody from here when the Vishwaroopam controversy broke. My mindset is always the same and it will be forever the same.

Far from being a true republic:
We have testimony to prove that India has become a republic — look at the technological advancements etc. All the same, we are still far from calling ourselves a true republic. The issue of caste and creed still prevails. The great poet Bharathiyar wrote, Jaadighal Illayadi Pappa. Today, Bharathiyar has his great granddaughter, still caste discrimination exists.
 
Congratulations to Vairamuthu:
I feel as though all the name and fame he gets is as if I got them. It is heartwarming to know that we both will share the stage to get the Padma Bhushan.

On Vishwaroopam 2:
The shooting is over and post-production work is going on. I will soon make an announcement about its release.

Opposed to autobiography: 
I oppose autobiographies. I am happy and contented with giving interviews. Most autobiographies lie. If I have to write, I need to speak the truth which will hurt and pain many. Let the ‘mystery’ about me remain (laughs).