Kamal Haasan: A look at the veteran actor's iconic roles that defined his career
From classics like Sadma and Anbe Sivam to action-packed hits like Vikram and Indian, the versatile actor Kamal Hassan has left an unforgettable mark on Indian cinema with his extraordinary performances and creative genius. Take a look at some of his iconic performances.
Curated by :
Gayatri Rani
November 07, 2025 / 06:00 IST
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Veteran actor Kamal Haasan is celebrating his 71st birthday on November 7, 2025. The legendary actor’s versatile performances have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. From the heart-wrenching romance of Sadma (1983) to the socially conscious Anbe Sivam (2003), the historical epic Hey Ram (2000), and high-octane action thrillers like Vikram (2022) and Indian (1996), Kamal Haasan has continually pushed the boundaries of storytelling. He has established himself as one of India's most renowned film icons by captivating audiences with his acting prowess over the years, as well as showcasing his abilities as a writer, director, and producer.
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Anbe Sivam (2003) Kamal Haasan starrer film story of Anbarasu, an advertising director, who unexpectedly meets Nallasivam, a deformed social activist, is told in this slice-of-life drama film. Directed by Sundar C, the film is written by Haasan himself. The film also stars R Madhavan, Kiran Rathod, Nassar, Santhana Bharathi, Seema, and Yugi Sethu.
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Mahanadi (1994) The 1994 crime drama Mahanadi follows the life of Krishnaswamy, a widower who resides in a village close to Kumbakonam with his mother-in-law and two kids. Based on a story written by Haasan himself, the Santhana Bharathi-directed movie addresses a number of societal issues, including child trafficking and corruption.
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Hey Ram (2000) The 2000 film Hey Ram, which was written and directed by Kamal Haasan, is a masterwork of both writing and filmmaking. The film tells the tale of Saket Ram, an elderly man nearing the end of his life, reflecting on his previous existence and the hardships he endured. The film also features Shah Rukh Khan, Hema Malini, Rani Mukerji, Vasundhara Das, Girish Karnad, and Naseeruddin Shah in the key roles.
Vikram (2022) Kamal Haasan plays the lead in Lokesh Kanagaraj's 2022 film Vikram, which centres on Amar, a black-ops officer looking into a string of killings connected to Sandhanam's drug ring. As the story progresses, Amar learns that the presumed dead Karnan is actually Vikram, a former agent who wants to destroy the drug network and get justice for the death of his son. Suriya makes a powerful cameo appearance in the action thriller, which also stars Vijay Sethupathi and Fahadh Faasil in key roles.
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Thoongaa Vanam (2015) This Kamal Haasan starrer Tamil action thriller is directed by Rajesh M. Selva. The actor portrays an undercover drug cop who is trying to rescue his kidnapped son from a drug lord. The film, which takes place in a nightclub over one night, is filled with suspense and action. Prakash Raj, Trisha Krishnan, Kishore, Sampath Raj, Guru Somasundaram, Yugi Sethu, and others are part of the cast.
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Sadma (1983) This romance drama revolves around Somu, who meets Nehalata in a brothel and senses her amnesiac problems, which regress her to a childlike state. He decides to take her to his hometown and nurse her back to good health. The film stars Kamal Haasan, Sridevi, Silk Smitha, Gulshan Grover and others in the pivotal roles.
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Chachi 420 (1997) The veteran actor delivered the most memorable performance in this comedy drama which also starred Tabu. The film is about a divorced father who disguises himself as an old lady to see his little girl more often. He gets a job as his own daughter's caretaker. The film features Fatima Sana Shaikh as Kamal Haasan and Tabu’s daughter.
Indian (1996) Directed by S. Shankar, this action thriller revolves around an honest veteran who has served in the Indian Army, decides to teach corrupt officials a lesson. He targets officials, ministers and bureaucrats to make them work diligently without accepting bribes. The film stars Kamal Haasan in a dual role as Veerasekharan Senapathy (Indian); Chandrabose (Chandru). The film also stars Manisha Koirala and Urmila Matondkar.
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Vishwaroopam (2013) This Indian action spy thriller follows Nirupama, an ambitious woman studying in the USA, who marries a dance master, Viswanathan. On being suspicious of his behaviour, she hires a detective, who reveals his true identity and past. Directed by Kamal Haasan, the film also stars Rahul Bose, Shekhar Kapur and Pooja Kumar.
