Kamal Haasan has worked in more than 200 movies ever since he made his debut as a child actor in the 1960s. Like all South Indian actors, his fans have also anointed him with a moniker. The actor is fondly referred to as ‘Ulaganayagan’ which means ‘Universal Hero.’ Haasan recently took to his social media to share a statement where he has asked his fans and the media to stop using this moniker from now onwards.

Actor Kamal Haasan on Monday penned a letter requesting fans not to address him by titles such as Ulaga Nayagan (universal hero) and instead refer to him by his name or simply KH.

“It is my humble belief that the artist 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. I humbly request that all my fans, the media, members of the film fraternity, party cadre, and fellow Indians, to here on after, refer to me simply as Kamal Haasan or Kamal or KH,” he signed off.

Taking to his X (formerly known as Twitter), Kamal Haasan shared a statement. He wrote how he is humbled and ‘genuinely moved’ by the love that is showered upon him by his fans and the media.

He said, “I have always felt a deep sense of gratitude over being bestowed with endearing titles such as Ulaganayagan, among others. Such accolades, given by the people and recognized by esteemed colleagues and admirers, have always been humbling, and I’ve been genuinely moved by your love in conferring it upon me."

Haasan mentioned how he hopes to learn, grow and evolve as a student of cinema. He said that cinema is more than a single individual and is a collaborative effort. He added, “It is my humble belief that the artist 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."

The actor mentioned that he would like to be referred to by his name or his initials. He continued, “I humbly request that all my fans, the media, members of the film fraternity, party cadre, and fellow Indians, to here on after, refer to me simply as Kamal Haasan or Kamal or KH."

On the work front, Haasan was last seen in Indian 2. He was also seen in Prabhas’ Kalki 2898 AD. He will be next seen in Mani Ratnam’s Thug Life.

Source: news18