Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan: Kamal Haasan has proved that artists have a life beyond the art

A rare convergence of two prominent figures, actor Kamal Haasan and Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, happened at an event marking the fourth anniversary of the LDF government in Thiruvananthapuram. The occasion saw a unique role reversal as Kamal became an attentive viewer of a documentary chronicling the Chief Minister's life, Pinarayi The Legend.

Kamal praised Vijayan's "exemplary works for the state and common people" after the screening. The Chief Minister, in turn, praised Kamal, calling him an "individual who has a leftist mind" and asserting that the actor "has proved that artists have a life beyond the art." Vijayan added that Kamal "is in the heart of every Malayali." The CM's comments come in the wake of a controversy surrounding Kamal's recent remark about the linguistic origins of Kannada.

During his address, Kamal expressed his admiration for leaders like Vijayan, who he noted has never taken a backward step fearing criticism." Emphasising a shared commitment to public service, Kamal stated, "Whichever the ideology may be, we are all comrades in serving the people. The fight against injustice is my responsibility."

The celebratory event included a cake-cutting ceremony, with the Chief Minister offering a piece to Kamal, who was in the city promoting his upcoming film Thug Life. It is worth noting that Kamal has been a longtime admirer of Pinarayi Vijayan's work.

Following the documentary screening, Vijayan acknowledged the potential for criticism regarding the film, stating, "Some people will try to interpret the documentary." He emphasised his roots within the party, asserting, "I have not evolved with my own ability. I am the product of my party. I could stand with the party at all times. The attack against me is because I was the symbol of the party and now the head of the government."

Vijayan also took a moment to point out an inaccuracy in the documentary, requesting the organisers to correct his mother's name to "Alakkatt Kalyani," calling the error a "cruel act against my mother." The documentary also claims that CM Vijayan had "achieved what VS Achuthanandan could not do."