Kamal Haasan says ‘there’s risk in making films that question govt’

Artists are citizens of the country who have every right to hold the authorities to account, said veteran star Kamal Haasan, admitting there is a risk in making films that question the government.
The trailer for Indian 2 was launched on Tuesday night amidst much fanfare. It kicks off with Siddharth, a young man battling against the systemic corruption plaguing the nation. Facing overwhelming odds, Siddharth seeks a solution to the problems of unemployment, corruption and lack of development that plague society. This is where Senapathy, the legendary freedom fighter from the original Indian, steps in.
Kamal Haasan, embodying the spirit of Senapathy, declares a “second war of independence” and embraces a “Netaji” approach, in contrast to the “Gandhian” approach of the past. His return is a powerful reminder that the fight for justice is a continuous battle and sometimes extreme measures are necessary to combat the forces of evil.
Shankar, the director, has once again delivered a visual spectacle, showcasing breathtaking action sequences and grand production values. Kamal Haasan’s performance is nothing short of mesmerising, seamlessly shifting between the roles of Siddharth and Senapathy with his signature intensity and charisma. The actor was speaking at the trailer launch of his upcoming film Hindustani 2: Zero Tolerance. Titled Indian 2: Zero Tolerance in Tamil, the upcoming movie is a sequel to Kamal’s hit 1996 film Indian, which featured him in a dual role. Shankar is returning to direct the second part of the franchise.
Asked whether it’s tough to make films that question the government today, the actor said this problem has persisted since the British era.
“People were making films even then. We will continue to make those kinds of films; it doesn’t matter who is at the top of the establishment. That’s not just the filmmaker; that’s the citizen’s right to ask those questions.
We, as artists, represent so many of you. Thanks to the applause, we believe that we are your representatives; hence, we talk boldly without thinking of the guillotine. Yes, there is a risk; the government can get angry, but your applause puts out that fire, so make it louder,” Kamal told reporters.
The 69-year-old said not only politicians but also citizens are to blame for the corruption plaguing the country.
“We are all responsible for the corruption and we must all change our minds. And the best time to change our minds is during elections! These are just reminders of how corrupt we have become. Nothing has changed thanks to corruption. Everything will change thanks to the collective conscience,” he added.
The actor-filmmaker said that while he is a fan of Mahatma Gandhi, he doesn’t subscribe to the ideology of tolerance. Kamal also directed and starred in the 2000 film Hey Ram,  which was set against the assassination of Gandhi.
“I am a great fan of Gandhiji. They say he taught you tolerance: ‘What do you think about tolerance?’ I say I am not a great fan of that tolerance business. Gandhi Ji is my hero, but who do you tolerate? Not a friend.
I want friendship to grow in the world. What you tolerate is a headache. Anything that’s a headache for society, you must have zero tolerance for. Find a medicine; put it out,” he said. Also starring Kajal Aggarwal, Siddharth and Rakul Preet Singh in key roles, Hindustani 2 will hit the screens on July 12.