Kamal haasan raises issues of identity, political power at Indian 2 audio launch

The audio launch of Kamal Haasan’s highly anticipated film Indian 2, marking director Shankar’s first collaboration with composer Anirudh Ravichander, was a star-studded affair in Chennai. Kamal, sporting stylish black attire and hat to conceal his look for his upcoming film Thug Life, addressed the audience in a fiery speech, hinting at the themes explored in both Indian 2 and a planned sequel in Indian 3. Citing the famous verse penned by renowned Tamil philosopher Kaniyan Pungundranar, “Yathum oore, yavarum kelir” (Every city is your city.            

Everyone is your kin), Kamal emphasised the inclusive nature of Tamil identity.

“We are known for embracing those who come to our state.

I am a Tamilian and an Indian — that is my identity, and yours too. That’s the concept behind the sequels,” he said. He then posed a provocative question, “Why shouldn’t there be a day when a Tamilian rules India?”

The actor-filmmaker also expressed his gratitude to minister Udhayanidhi Stalin for his assistance in resolving financial challenges faced by the producers of Indian 2. “I will support him in his future endeavours,” Haasan added, hinting at a potential political collaboration with the DMK party.

Indian 2, produced by Lyca Productions carrying the tagline “Zero Tolerance,” is the sequel to the 1996 blockbuster Indian, directed by Shankar and starring Kamal.