One of the most well-known and complex figures in Indian cinema, Kamal Haasan, is still in demand in 2025. With his signature blend of artistic ambition and outspoken views, Haasan is once again making waves—both for his blockbuster film projects and his candid remarks that have sparked intense public discussion.
Thug Life: A Cinematic Reunion with Mani Ratnam
A major highlight of 2025 is Thug Life, an eagerly anticipated film directed by Mani Ratnam. After their renowned partnership on *Nayakan* almost forty years ago, Haasan and Ratnam have reunited on this project.The film features an impressive ensemble cast, including Trisha Krishnan, Silambarasan, and Aishwarya Lekshmi, and is set for a worldwide release on June 5, 2025, in both standard and IMAX theaters.
Set in a dark, crime-filled world, Thug Life is reportedly made on a massive ₹200 crore budget, promising a grand cinematic experience. Adding to the excitement, Kamal Haasan has also co-written the screenplay, further fueling anticipation among fans and critics alike.
Language Controversy in Karnataka
While promoting Thug Life, Haasan made a remark about the Kannada language’s historical roots, suggesting it evolved from Tamil. This statement quickly led to protests in Karnataka, with many feeling that their linguistic heritage was slighted. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce responded by halting the film’s release in the state, demanding an apology.
Haasan clarified that he intended to highlight the shared ancestry of South Indian languages, not to diminish Kannada’s unique identity. However, he stood firm in his refusal to apologize, stating that his words were misinterpreted. The matter escalated to the Karnataka High Court, which urged celebrities to be sensitive when discussing cultural topics. To alleviate tensions, Haasan finally declared that *Thug Life* would not be released in Karnataka for the time being.
Indian 2: The Legendary Senapathy Returns
In addition to Thug Life, Kamal Haasan is making a comeback as Senapathy in Indian 2, the sequel to his 1996 classic. Directed by S. Shankar, the film promises intense action and powerful social commentary. Haasan’s reputation for adaptability and daring storytelling is further cemented by the recently released teaser, which features him in a variety of disguises and difficult situations.
While the trailer has sparked mixed reactions—some praising its scale and others questioning certain creative choices—it has undeniably heightened interest in the film’s release.
