Superstar Kamal Haasan, one of the greatest actors of our time, has recently revealed a shocking reason behind his exit from Bollywood: the industry’s connection to the underworld. Making his Bollywood debut in 1981 with the film “Ek Duuje Ke Liye,” Haasan enjoyed success in Hindi cinema but eventually chose to leave the industry. In a candid interview with India Today in 2017, he discussed the pressures that influenced his decision, marking a significant point in his storied career.
The legendary actor, known for his exceptional talent spanning over six decades, took the bold step to disengage from Bollywood after shining in several prominent films, including his recent role as the main antagonist, ‘Supreme Yaskin’, in “Kalki 2898 AD” alongside Amitabh Bachchan. His recent statements shed light on a darker side of the industry that prompted his departure, especially regarding the pervasive underworld influence.
Kamal Haasan’s decision to leave Bollywood is rooted in his strong values and refusal to engage with illicit activities. In his interview, he stated, “The other reason was there were too many underworld connections. I didn’t want to stay there to either oppose it or succumb to the threat. I was one of the actors to decide that I would not have anything to do with black money.” This declaration underscores his commitment to maintaining integrity in his career. He elaborated that he has nothing to do with black money and expressed pride in his decision to avoid such entanglements.
Further reflecting on his experiences in the Bollywood industry, Haasan described himself as the “poorer cousin” of Hindi cinema, feeling somewhat out of place among his peers, who he perceived as “rich and spoiled.” He emphasized the disparities within the film fraternity, highlighting the contrasting work ethics and character-building aspects he witnessed. He remarked, “I had to do my own laundry and stuff like that. They were really spoilt and rich.” This sentiment reveals his struggle and the pressures he faced in an environment that he felt compromised his personal and professional principles.
Kamal Haasan’s departure from Bollywood signals not only a personal transformation but also an important commentary on the broader issues of ethics and integrity within the film industry. His choice not to align with the underworld or engage with black money is a significant stance amidst the ongoing discussions about corruption in various sectors.
The implications of his exit resonate beyond his career, serving as a clarion call for accountability and the importance of ethical boundaries in cinema. As Haasan moves forward, his firm resolve may inspire others in the industry to prioritize integrity over success, potentially reshaping the values with which the film fraternity operates. This bold stand against underworld connections reveals Kamal Haasan as not only a talented actor but also a principled figure in cinema.
