Kamal Haasan’s new film has landed in a political storm on the very day it was announced. Ahead of his 72nd birthday, the actor unveiled the title of his next film, Sandiyar, and the name has already triggered strong opposition in Tamil Nadu.
The Announcement
Sandiyar is directed by S.U. Arun Kumar and produced by Kamal Haasan and R. Mahendran under Raaj Kamal Films International.
The first-look poster shows a rugged, intense Kamal Haasan leaning out of a blood-stained car, holding a gun. One of the film’s tags reads: “Revenge can only be settled in blood!”
A Title With a History
The title isn’t new. More than two decades ago, Sandiyar was the original title of a Kamal Haasan film, and it triggered a major political and caste-related controversy in Tamil Nadu.
At the time, with J. Jayalalithaa as Chief Minister, protests forced Kamal to change the title. The film was eventually released as Virumandi for Pongal 2004, and it went on to become one of his most acclaimed films.
History Repeats
Now, the same title has brought back the same opposition.
Puthiya Tamizhagam (PT), led by Dr. K. Krishnasamy, the party that led the protests back then, has raised objections once again. The party argues that the title glorifies dominant caste groups, and that it could encourage caste-based violence and the “aruval” (sickle) culture in southern Tamil Nadu.
A Strong Warning
At a press conference today, PT issued a strong warning: “The film will neither be allowed to commence shooting nor be released in theatres!”
Sandiyar: Key Details
- Lead: Kamal Haasan
- Director: S.U. Arun Kumar
- Music: Anirudh Ravichander
- Action: Anbariv
- Cinematography: Sunil KS
- Producers: Kamal Haasan, R. Mahendran
- Banner: Raaj Kamal Films International
What Will Kamal Do?
Kamal Haasan and the makers have not yet responded to PT’s objections.
The big question now is whether Kamal will stand his ground this time, or whether Sandiyar will once again end up with a new title, just like it did over two decades ago.