How Kamal Haasan Entered Cinema – The Untold Story

Every legend has a beginning, and in cinema, few beginnings are as dramatic and fateful as that of Kamal Haasan. Today, he is celebrated as one of India’s finest actors, a filmmaker of vision, and an icon of versatility. But his journey didn’t start with stardom—it began with a fish pond, a Labrador dog, and a chance encounter that would change his life forever.

In this article, we trace the untold story of how Kamal Haasan stepped into the world of films, his early struggles, and the mentors who shaped his career.

The Chance Encounter at AVM

The story begins not on a film set, but in the sprawling hall of AV Meiyappan’s house, the legendary founder of AVM Studios. Kamal, still a child then, had accompanied Dr. Saraswati Chandramouliswaran, a family friend of his mother Rajalakshmi. The boy wasn’t there for cinema. He wanted to see the fish pond and play with AVM’s yellow Labrador dogs.

It was during this innocent visit that fate intervened. AV Meiyappan himself happened to be taking a stroll. Instead of shying away, Kamal spoke boldly, catching the old man’s attention. Impressed by his confidence, AVM asked Kamal to return with his father the next day to meet director A. Bhimsingh, who was preparing for his next film, Kalathur Kannamma.

The First Test – Kalathur Kannamma

When Bhimsingh met the young boy, he asked him to say a few lines. Kamal delivered them with ease. The director’s response was immediate and firm: “Perfect.”

For Kamal’s father, an orthodox Brahmin, the decision to allow his son into cinema was unexpected. But he agreed, and soon, Kamal was cast in Kalathur Kannamma for a fee of ₹2,000.

What followed was a battle within the studio. Actress Savitri had initially demanded Daisy Irani, already a popular child star, for the role. The studio had even paid Daisy’s grandmother ₹10,000 in advance, part of a massive ₹30,000 deal. Yet, when Savitri saw Kamal enact a scene, Daisy was forgotten. She grew fond of the boy, and AVM—true to his integrity—still honored the full payment to Daisy’s family.

It was a gesture of respect that cemented AVM’s reputation and gave Kamal his opening.

Growing Up Between Films and Classrooms

On the sets of Kalathur Kannamma, Kamal was not just acting. He was learning. During breaks, he studied with Kutty Padmini, another child actor, under the watchful care of Radhamma, who became like a guardian. Even legends like Sivaji Ganesan showed affection, often bringing chocolates for the children.

Soon, Kamal was signed for more films. His childhood became a balancing act between cinema, school, and drama rehearsals. He joined the TKS troupe, splitting time between the stage and his alma mater, Hindu Higher Secondary School—a place that would shape many futures, including fellow alumni Nagarajan Srinivas and Anbazhagan Ambrose.

The Mentors Who Shaped Him

As the years passed and Kamal transitioned from child roles to adult responsibilities, he found guidance under three towering figures of Tamil cinema:

• A. P. Nagarajan, who taught him discipline and presence.

• K. Balachander, who became his guru, challenging him with complex roles and refining his craft.

• Gemini Ganesan, who offered warmth and encouragement, helping him navigate the industry.

Under Balachander especially, Kamal evolved not just as an actor but as a filmmaker in the making. He learned the rhythms of the set, the language of cinema, and the importance of constant reinvention.

From Boy to Star

By the 1970s, Kamal had matured into a versatile actor. His years of groundwork culminated in films like Sakalakalavallavan, which catapulted him into superstardom. But behind the glitter of fame lay the quiet truth: his journey had begun with a chance encounter, a child’s curiosity, and the unshakable instinct of a great studio head who saw potential where no one else did.

Why Kamal Haasan’s Story Inspires

Kamal Haasan’s entry into cinema is more than a biography footnote—it is a story of fate meeting preparation.

• A curious child became a prodigy.

• Goodwill and mentorship shaped his journey.

• Discipline and reinvention kept him relevant for decades.

For anyone chasing dreams, Kamal’s story is proof that sometimes destiny knocks when you least expect it—and what matters most is the courage to step forward.

👉Want to read more inspiring journeys? Explore Dhanush’s Entry into Cinema, or comment down your topic

FAQs

How did Kamal Haasan enter the film industry?
He was discovered by AV Meiyappan as a child and debuted in Kalathur Kannamma (1960).

What was Kamal Haasan’s first film?
Kalathur Kannamma, which won him the President’s Gold Medal as a child artist.

Who were Kamal Haasan’s mentors?
A. P. Nagarajan, K. Balachander, and Gemini Ganesan.

Which film gave Kamal Haasan superstardom?
Sakalakalavallavan (1982) cemented his star status.