Seasoned artiste and founder of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) Kamal Haasan started his parliamentary life formally today, as he was sworn in as a Rajya Sabha Member of Parliament (MP) in Tamil. The historic achievement is an addition to the multi-faceted personality\’s journey, where his silver screen legacy converges with a dedicated legislative life.
A Strategic Move into the Upper House
Haasan\’s entry into the Upper House was on the cards after being elected unanimously to the Rajya Sabha from Tamil Nadu on June 12. It was a strategic outcome of an election pact, wherein MNM had provided full support in elections to the ruling DMK-led alliance in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. As a part of MNM\’s election campaign for the DMK-led INDIA alliance, a seat in the Rajya Sabha was being assured, and now the assurance has been fulfilled.
The oath-taking ceremony in Parliament saw Haasan taking his oath in Tamil, which moved the audience and was met with thumps on the table in the form of applause by other Parliamentarians. Talking to the media outside Parliament, the 69-year-old actor-turned-politician was filled with pride and honor to occupy this national legislative position. He vowed to work hard, not only for the people of Tamil Nadu but for the entire nation.
A New Chapter for the \’Ulaganayagan\’
Haasan\’s nomination was marked by him submitting his papers on June 6 at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat, an event attended by Chief Minister MK Stalin, Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin, and other top alliance leaders, which spoke volumes about the political support for his entry. His election, along with five other candidates from Tamil Nadu, was uncontested, a reflection of the easy majority of the alliance in the state assembly to muster the necessary votes.
This step puts Kamal Haasan solidly into national politics, allowing him to influence legislative debate without compromising his distinguished career in the movies. His joining is going to bring a unique voice to parliamentary debate that is sophisticated and culturally sensitive to the Rajya Sabha.
