“Artistes are citizens of the country who have every right to hold the authorities to account,” said veteran star Kamal Haasan. He admitted there is a “risk” in making films that question the government while speaking at the trailer launch of his upcoming film “Hindustani 2: Zero Tolerance”. In the movie, he reprises the role of Senapathy, a freedom fighter-turned-vigilante who fought against corruption in India.
Titled “Indian 2: Zero Tolerance” in Tamil, the upcoming movie is a sequel to Kamal’s hit 1996 film “Indian”, in which he played a dual role. Director Shankar is returning to direct the second part in the franchise.
When asked if it’s tough to make films that question the government today, the actor said this problem has persisted since the British era. He emphasized that people have been making films even then and will continue to do so, regardless of who is at the top of the establishment. According to him, it’s not just the filmmaker but also the citizen’s right to ask those questions.
Kamal further stated, “We, as artistes, represent so many of you people. Thanks to the applause, we believe that we are your representatives, hence we talk boldly, without thinking of the guillotine. Yes, there is a risk, the government can get angry, but your applause puts out that fire, so make it louder.”
Additionally, the 69-year-old highlighted that not only politicians but also citizens are to be blamed for the corruption plaguing the country. He stressed the need for collective change and stated, “We are all responsible for the corruption and we must all change our minds, especially during elections. These are reminders of how corrupt we have become… Nothing has changed thanks to corruption. Everything will change thanks to the collective conscience.