After 22 years, the title of the film 'Sandyar' has once again become controversial!
Actor Kamal Haasan, in celebration of his birthday, recently released the first-look poster of his new film, in which he will star. Within the next few hours, the announcement of the new film sparked intense debate in Tamil Nadu’s political arena.
The title of that film, 'Sandyar,' is the basis for all this uproar. "This is a name associated with a particular caste background. If a film is released under this name, there is a possibility that caste issues and riots could arise again in peaceful Tamil Nadu. Therefore, Kamal Haasan should not use this name for his new film.
If he goes ahead, the film will not be shot anywhere in Tamil Nadu. Even if he ignores that and films it outside Tamil Nadu and then tries to release it in Tamil Nadu, that too will not happen. The New Tamil Nadu party opposes this film,” said Dr. Krishnasamy, the leader of the New Tamil Nadu party, in a public warning at a press meet.
As far back as 23 years ago, Kamal Haasan had announced a film under the same title, but following opposition from the New Tamil Nadu party, he was forced to change the title of the film to ‘Virumaandi.’ Now, once again, Kamal Haasan has entered the field with the title ‘Sandiyar.’
Meanwhile, A.M. Southri Devar, the state president of the All India Mukkulathor Paasarai, has expressed support for the film ‘Sandiyar,’ saying, “The title Sandiyar is a proud, dignified name for the Devar community. Kamal Haasan should release the film with the same title this time, without yielding to anyone’s threats.” Following this, people from that community have begun taking to the internet with the slogan, “We will stand by Sandiyar Kamal as he enters the fray!”
At this point, the public has also begun asking, “Should Kamal Haasan, a responsible political party leader, get caught up in such a title controversy again?” In response, we spoke to film director and Makkal Needhi Maiam party spokesperson Murali Abbas to seek clarification for the public’s doubts...
“ ‘Sandiyar’ is a word that is commonly used in our culture. It does not mean rowdy. Why is Dr. Krishnasamy, who did not object when films were previously released under the same title, opposing it only when Kamal Haasan gives a title to his film?
It is not wrong to question the possible impact on society when a major actor like Kamal Haasan chooses a title. But one cannot decide the film’s intent based on the title alone. Only after the film is released should we talk about what it actually says.
Kamal Haasan has criticized caste oppression and violence in his films. In that case, criticizing him based on a title is not right. Moreover, in this matter, it is also wrong for some people to unnecessarily bring in caste politics and turn it into an issue between two sides. “Sandiyar” is simply a film title that should be passed over normally. Let the film come; we can talk after watching it,” he explains.