Kamal Haasan turns 63: Here's looking at his multifaceted journey
What's the story
One of Indian cinema's most versatile actors Kamal Haasan, who is also the only Indian actor whose movies have been nominated for Oscars seven times, turns 63 today.
Apart from being an actor par excellence, Haasan is also a stellar flimmaker, screenwriter and a social activist.
On his birthday, let's have a look at his wonderful journey so far.
Actor
Kamal Haasan, the versatile actor
Kamal Haasan is known for doing unconventional roles; he has been a part of some of the coming of age films.
He has done over 200 films in Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Hindi but Bollywood would always be grateful to him for 'Sadma' and 'Chachi 420'. Haasan made cross-dressing look cool and became a favorite among children for his brilliant portrayal.
Politics
The politician in the making
Kamal Haasan has been in news for his controversial statements lately and has been extremely vocal about his issues with the party in power. He has often been termed "anti-national" for that.
But the actor is unfazed by names and is determined to form his party. He has been inspired by Kejriwal's AAP party and promises to lead by actions, not words.
Social work
Haasan's humanitarian activities at a glance
Kamal is the first Tamil actor to make substantial use of his fan clubs and has converted them into welfare organisations. His social group works under the banner of Kamal Narpani Iyakkam (Kamal Welfare Association).
His fan clubs help organize blood and eye-donation drives for the underprivileged and donate educational materials to the needy.
Haasan is an also ambassador for an AIDS-affected children organization.
Family
Kamal Haasan's failed marriages
At the age of 24, Kamal married danseuse Vani Ganapathy but got divorced after 10 years.
He then got into a live-in relationship with actress Sarika; he got married to her after the birth of their first daughter Shruti Haasan in 1986.
But this marriage too didn't last long, as the couple filed for divorce in 2002. Both their daughters have joined the film-industry.
Quote
Kamal Haasan on cancelling his birthday celebrations
"Tomorrow is just another day, If you just celebrate and fail to seize it. If we can make it better in a pursuit of a cause, then we can become the change we seek."