How Do Kerala Rajya Sabha Members Welcome Kamal Haasan?
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Synopsis
Kamal Haasan, a luminary in Malayalam cinema, recently took his oath as a Rajya Sabha member, accompanied by Kerala MPs. His close ties with CPI-M and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan highlight his influence in the region. This event marks a pivotal moment in his political career. Explore the details of his journey and impact on Kerala's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Kamal Haasan has a long-standing relationship with Kerala's CPI-M.
- He took his oath in Tamil to honor his roots.
- His political party, Makkal Needhi Maiam, aims to disrupt traditional political dynamics.
- Haasan's popularity in Kerala stems from his extensive film career.
- The MNM's alliance with DMK could influence future elections.
New Delhi/Thiruvananthapuram, July 25 (NationPress) The renowned actor Kamal Haasan, celebrated for his roles in numerous Malayalam films, took his oath as a Member of the Rajya Sabha on Friday and was warmly welcomed by MPs from Kerala.
Although the iconic actor joined the Upper House representing Tamil Nadu, he was surrounded by Kerala members like John Brittas, A.A. Rahim, Harris Beeran, and P.V. Abdul Wahab during the session.
Interestingly, Haasan shares a close bond with the CPI-M in Kerala, particularly with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
Recently, the actor visited the state capital to unveil a documentary video about Vijayan, and he often meets the Chief Minister at his official residence.
At 70, Haasan's journey in the Malayalam film industry began with his debut in “Kannum Karalum” in 1962, and he has since starred in around 45 films, becoming a beloved figure in Kerala.
His films have generally performed well at the box office, reflecting his popularity.
Taking his oath in Tamil, Haasan reaffirmed his commitment to his cultural roots, stating, “As an Indian, I will do my duty.”
His entry into the Upper House represents a significant chapter in his political journey, which has transitioned from idealism to pragmatic strategy.
In February 2018, he established the Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) to offer a centrist, non-Dravidian option against the dominant DMK and AIADMK. His early initiatives were centered on transparency, grassroots governance, and moving beyond traditional political divides.
During the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, MNM contested 37 seats, achieving a modest share of votes, particularly in urban areas.
In the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, Haasan ran from Coimbatore South but narrowly lost to BJP's Vanathi Srinivasan.
Despite the defeat, the MNM secured over 2.6% of the statewide vote, according to electoral data.
In March 2024, MNM allied with the DMK-led Secular Progressive Alliance ahead of the general elections, prioritizing collaboration over ideological separation.
The MNM's support contributed to the DMK's clean sweep of all 39 Lok Sabha seats in Tamil Nadu, leading to Haasan being offered a Rajya Sabha seat as part of the coalition's power-sharing agreement.
Point of View
It's essential to acknowledge Kamal Haasan's significant move into politics while maintaining an unbiased perspective. His deep-rooted connections in Kerala and his political strategies reflect a complex understanding of regional dynamics. The blending of his cinematic influence with political aspirations is a phenomenon worth observing for its implications on both state and national levels.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kamal Haasan's role in the Rajya Sabha?
Kamal Haasan has recently been sworn in as a Member of the Rajya Sabha, representing Tamil Nadu, while actively engaging with MPs from Kerala.
What political party did Kamal Haasan establish?
Kamal Haasan founded the Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) in 2018, aiming to provide a centrist alternative in Tamil Nadu politics.
How many Malayalam films has Kamal Haasan acted in?
Kamal Haasan has acted in approximately 45 Malayalam films, establishing himself as a significant figure in the industry.
What were Kamal Haasan's electoral performances?
In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, MNM contested 37 seats and, despite a modest vote share, showed better performance in urban areas.
Who did Kamal Haasan lose to in the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections?
Kamal Haasan narrowly lost to BJP's Vanathi Srinivasan in the Coimbatore South constituency during the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly elections.
