How Did Kamal Haasan Get The Title Of Ulaganayagan?

Fans of Kamal Haasan are in a delightful mood, as 7 November, marks the birthday of their idol. Known as one of Indian cinema's legendary stars, Kamal Haasan is often addressed as Ulaganayagan by his film

buffs. Although he requested his admirers not to address him this way, loyal followers of the star continue to do it. So how did he get the moniker Ulaganayagan? Read on to know more.

How And When Did Kamal Haasan Get The Moniker Ulaganayagan?

For the unversed, director KS Ravikumar's Thenali was the first film to honor Kamal Haasan with the title Ulaganayagan. Released in 2000, this comedy-drama featured Kamal Haasan's remarkable versatility and global appeal, led fans to hail him as a true “Universal Hero.” The title was a testimony to the impact he has across diverse languages and genres, as well as his influence beyond Indian cinema. This moniker cemented Kamal Haasan’s status as an icon in the film industry, paving way for fans to use the title as a mark of love and respect.

In a 2020 interview, the KS Ravikumar shared how Kamal Haasan helped in the making of the movie without any expectations. He shared that while Kamal Haasan received his remuneration for the film, he wanted to give the actor something unique and something he could keep forever. He then went to his house and shot the promo of Kamal Haasan's introduction shot as Ulaganayagan.

Last year Kamal Haasan said that he doesn't want to be addressed with any title. The note posted by him on X read "Such accolades, given by the people and recognised by esteemed colleagues and admirers, has always been humbling and I have been genuinely moved by your love in conferring it upon me,” the actor said in a statement. The top actor said it was his humble belief that artists 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.” He requested that his fans, members of the film fraternity, media, party cadres and ’fellow Indians,’ to refer to him ’simply as Kamal Haasan or Kamal or KH.’'

Kamal Haasan was last seen in Mani Ratnam's Thug Life. He has announced that his production venture Raaj Kamal Films International will produce Rajinikanth's 173 film which will be directed by Sundar C.