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Kamal Haasan is a legendary Indian actor, director and writer, who has got himself a dedicated fanbase with his memorable roles and film-making prowess.
From playing villains to dual roles, Kamal Haasan has entertained audiences for over six decades. (File Photo)
Kamal Haasan is undoubtedly one of the biggest stars in the Indian film industry, mostly known for his work in regional films. Throughout his decades-long career, he has transformed himself into roles across a broad spectrum of genres and characters. The actor celebrates his 70th birthday today, November 7. On his special day, let’s look at 10 of his most mind-blowing avatars, showcasing his dedication to the craft.
Aalavandhan (2001)
In this 2001 action thriller, Kamal Haasan portrayed dual roles as twins Nandu and Vijay—one is a psychopathic killer, and the other is a respected army officer. The actor’s finesse in portraying both characters, coupled with his different physique, left a strong impression on audiences.
Anbe Sivam (2003)
Kamal Haasan once again portrayed a scarred and deformed socialist, Nallasivam, in this 2003 slice-of-life drama film directed by Sundar C. He acted opposite R. Madhavan, who played Anbarasu, a commercial director with a contrasting personality to that of Haasan’s character. The veteran actor’s transformation into the disfigured, wise and empathetic Nallasivam was profound.
Apoorva Sagodharargal (1989)
In this 1989 Tamil-language film, the veteran actor played the dual role of twins Appu and Raja, who were separated at birth and grew up in two different families. Haasan’s portrayal of Appu, a dwarf clown, was remarkable, given the technical limitations of the time. He created history by portraying a dwarf almost half his height.
Gauze 420 (1997)
One of the most iconic roles that many ’90s kids remember Kamal Haasan for is Chachi 420. In the 1997 comedy film starring Tabu, the actor transformed into a woman, Shrimati Lakshmi Godbole. The beauty and grace with which he portrayed the character is still loved by many.
Dasavathaaram (2008)
Kamal Haasan portrayed not just one or two characters but 10 in this Tamil-language sci-fi film. From playing a 12th-century Vaishnavite priest to former US President George Bush, this film showcased his versatility. Many appreciated the actor’s effort to differentiate each character.
Hey Ram (2000)
In Hey Ram, Kamal Haasan portrayed the role of Saket Ram, an 89-year-old Hindu lying on his deathbed. He revisits his life during the partition when his wife Aparna was raped and killed. Following this, he decided to seek vengeance. Haasan’s transformation from a calm and composed person to a revengeful man was appreciated by the audience.
Indian (1996)
Kamal Haasan played a dual role. First, the role of a 70-year-old vigilante freedom fighter named Senapathy and the second asChandrabose alias Chandru, a small-time broker. The actor took prosthetic makeup and physical transformation to a new level. His portrayal of the disciplined, morally upright Senapathy who stands up against corruption in post-independence India even won him a National Award. Owing to the success of Indian’s second installment, a third is underway for release on January 24, 2025.
Indrudu Chandrudu (1989)
The 70-year-old actor portrayed another double role on screen. In this 1989 black comedy film, Kamal Haasan played a corrupt and ruthless mayor and his look-alike Chandrudu, a happy-go-lucky youngster. The actor went the extra mile to play the mayor, where he had to widen his nostrils with pen caps and use gum on his upper lips to widen them.
Kalki 2898 AD (2024)
In the recently released sci-fi film Kalki 2898 AD, Kamal Haasan portrayed a powerful antagonist role as Supreme Yaskin. He opted for prosthetic makeup to transform into the character and once again showcased his versatility on the screen.
Vishwaroopam (2013)
In this 2013 spy thriller, Kamal Haasan successfully played two characters — a cowardly classical dancer named Viswanathan and an undercover RAW agent who navigates the dangerous world of terrorism. The actor enthralled the viewers with his duality on the screen, embodying two polar opposite characters with sheer finesse.
