After turning 70 this November 7, star actor Kamal Haasan has decided to let go of 'Ulaganayagan' (translates to universal hero), a moniker Tamil cinema anointed him in the 2000s. Taking to his official social media pages, Kamal Haasan released a statement on his letter head, and it read, 

"Vanakkam,

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, has always been humbling, and I've been genuinely moved by your love in conferring it upon me.

The art of cinema transcends beyond any one individual and I am but a student of the craft, forever hoping to evolve, learn and grow. Cinema, like any other form of creative expression, belongs to all. It is the collaboration of countless artists, technicians, and audience who make it what it is a true reflection of humanity's diverse, rich, and ever- evolving stories.

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 film fraternity, party cadre and fellow Indians, to here on after, refer to me simply as Kamal Haasan or Kamal or KH.

Thank you again for your gestures of kindness over the years. Please know that this decision comes from a place of humility and a desire to remain true to my roots and purpose, to always be one among all of us the lovers of this beautiful artform.

Forever Yours,

Kamal Haasan
#4,Eldams Road, Alwarpet, Chennai-600 018."

 

Kamal Haasan is the second major star actor to publicly denounce a title or prefix in Tamil Cinema. In 2021, actor Ajith released a similar statement requesting fans to no longer use 'Thala' in association with his name, and instead go with Ajith Kumar, Ajith or AK.

Ajith's decision however was also spurred by fan-fights since the 'Thala' moniker was given to cricketer MS Dhoni, while it was still being used in association with actor Ajith. Ajith's fans have since resorted to calling him 'Kadavuley' (translates to Oh God), just as Kamal Haasan fans call KH as 'Aandavare' (translates to Mr. God).

Monikers are a serious business in the Tamil filmdom, and when moves are made to give one popular figure's title to another, it is usually met with resistance from fans of the original title holder. The most notorious case of the same has been immortalized in the Jailer (2023) song Hukum, where lyricist Super Subu takes cognizance of the fact that campaigns were run to snatch the 'Superstar' title from star actor Rajinikanth. 

There are exceptions too to title sharing in Tamil Nadu, as both incumbent Chief Minister MK Stalin, and popular star actor turned politician Vijay, are both known by the same title 'Thalapathy'.