Kamal Haasan is open to filming in M'sia as he arrives in KL to promote new film
Kamal Haasan is happy to present his latest movie 'Thug Life' to his Malaysian fans. Photo: LOW BOON TAT/The Star
Indian actor and politician Kamal Haasan is in Kuala Lumpur today (May 31) to promote his latest movie, Thug Life , which is set to hit cinemas on June 5.
Speaking to the media at a hotel in KL earlier this afternoon, the 70-year-old described the film as 'a treat' he has prepared for his Malaysian fans.
'We worked hard on this 'child,' which I am now handing over to you,' he said.
Thug Life reunites Kamal with director Mani Ratnam after 38 years.
Their last collaboration was the 1987 classic Nayakan . Indian media has dubbed Thug Life a 'spiritual sequel' to that film, after Kamal said it was a peace offering to fans who have long awaited their reunion.
Co-written by Kamal and Mani, Thug Life is set in the criminal underworld, where brothers Sakthivel and Manickam rule.
But things begin to shift when one of them rescues a young boy – triggering insecurity in the other.
When an assassination attempt is made on Sakthivel, he sets out to destroy the very family he once built.
The film also stars Silambarasan, Trisha Krishnan and Joju George.
The award-winning actor – whose notable works include Hey Ram , Indian , Vikram and Vishwaroopam – said his character in Thug Life is someone who fights with everything he has.
'That makes him more dangerous than someone with a sword – because he is someone who has nothing to go back to. The battlefield is his home now. He'll see the battle through to the end, live or die,' Kamal said.
When asked whether he'd be interested in filming in Malaysia again, Kamal shared that he has shot scenes here in the past and is open to doing so in the future.
'I've come here many times. I have many friends in Malaysia. And I think we share more than just culture and language,' he added.
Besides the press conference, Kamal is also scheduled to make a special appearance at a fan meet-and-greet at MyTown Kuala Lumpur later this evening.
Kamal Haasan arrives at the press conference to promote 'Thug Life'. Photo: LOW BOON TAT/The Star.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Star
14 minutes ago
- The Star
Malaysia's 'flying roti canai' draws long queues at Expo 2025 in Osaka
The sight of Muiz tossing roti canai dough in the air is part of the crowd-pulling appeal at the Malaysia Pavilion. – BERNAMApic OSAKA: "Flying roti canai" has turned out to be a crowd-puller at Expo 2025 Osaka, drawing visitors to the Malaysia Pavilion with its skilful preparation and irresistible buttery aroma. The sight of roti canai being expertly tossed high into the air by Muhammad Muiz Ruzaini and Mohamad Zul Imran Zulkifle, combined with the tempting smell, has whetted the appetites of visitors. Some are willing to queue for up to two hours. Muiz said he did not expect to be selected as part of the Malaysian delegation to Expo 2025 Osaka, where he would showcase the rich flavours of Malaysian cuisine on the world stage. What makes the experience even more rewarding is the overwhelming response from visitors, the Kedahan said when met at the expo recently. "Many visitors praised the delicious roti canai and gave positive feedback, both in terms of taste and our presentation. "After they ate, many would come up and say 'oishī' (delicious). Some even repeated it seven times," he said, adding that most of the visitors were from Japan, South Korea and China. The freshly made roti canai, served with chicken curry and dhal, is priced at 1,680 yen (almost RM50) per serving. Daily sales average between 1,000 and 1,600 pieces, underscoring its growing popularity among visitors from the above three countries and elsewhere. The pan-fried flatbread – a popular choice at any time of the day in Malaysia – is skilfully stretched, flipped and spun in the air to create a layered texture. Crispy and flaky on the outside but soft on the inside, the roti canai was ranked among the top 100 street foods in the world in 2023 by global food database TasteAtlas. Zul Imran, a roti canai maker from Penang, hoped that the popularity of roti canai at the expo would help cement its place on the global culinary map and attract more tourists to visit Malaysia. "I hope the Malaysia Pavilion roti canai becomes the number one dish at Expo 2025," he said. Japanese visitor Yoko Yoshinaga described the dish as "sweet, with a unique texture, and addictive". "This is my second time having roti canai. I first saw it on X (formerly Twitter), and the unforgettable taste brought me back. I lined up again just to relive the experience," she said. Yoshinaga, who visited Malaysia 30 years ago, praised the nation's development, calling it a peaceful and modern country. Another visitor, Hanako Sekimukai, who tried roti canai for the first time, said she was pleasantly surprised by its flavour. "I've been to Malaysia before, but I never had the chance to try roti canai. The chicken curry served with it wasn't too spicy, which made it even more enjoyable," she said, adding that the cultural performances at the pavilion brought back fond memories of her time in Malaysia. Located on a 2,654.52sq m site across three floors, the Malaysia Pavilion reflects the nation's diverse culture and dynamic economy. Under the theme "Weaving a Future in Harmony", the pavilion highlights Malaysia's commitment to a sustainable, inclusive and forward-looking future. Expo 2025 is a six-month fair that began on April 13 and will go on until Oct 13. It is the second world expo in Osaka after Expo 1970. – Bernama
Malay Mail
2 hours ago
- Malay Mail
Why upcoming 'Thug Life' will be bigger than Nayakan: Kamal Haasan gives insight into his most ambitious film yet
KUALA LUMPUR, June 2 — Indian movie icon Kamal Haasan has set the bar high for his upcoming film Thug Life, declaring it an evolution of his craft that will surpass his iconic 1987 masterpiece Nayakan. The actor, who came to Malaysia on Saturday to promote the film, which is slated for theatrical release on June 5 by DMY Creation, shared his insights during an exclusive interview with Malay Mail. Reflecting on the challenge of living up to his past success of Nayakan directed by the genius Mani Ratnam who is a close friend, Kamal said their shared goal was always to push boundaries. 'The demography has expanded, and we, as technicians, I as an actor, and he (Mani) as a director, have evolved over time. 'Our first challenge is to surpass Nayakan many times over. To prove our evolution, the starting point must be that it has to be better than Nayakan,' he said. Kamal and Mani's collaboration on Thug Life marks their first project together in 38 years, raising hopes among fans for yet another cinematic milestone from the legendary duo. When asked about moments of synergy with his team, especially with Mani, Kamal said: 'Every day, when something to be proud of on set happens, we don't show it. We keep a cold face,' he said with a laugh. 'You can't keep applauding your work because you'll lose focus. Instead, you have to review it again, even if it's bitter criticism. You accept it and try to make it better.' For Kamal, collaboration is the lifeblood of filmmaking. 'Without co-efficient traction, there wouldn't be any kinetic movement forward; that's why collaboration is essential. I can't become a fan of my ideas. 'There has to be critique. Whether it's costumes, the way a character's hair is parted, or camera angles, everyone contributes to the process—from the director to the editor and the technicians,' he said. Kamal Haasan's unwavering passion for cinema shines through, especially when discussing what's next on his journey with Malay Mail. — Picture by Raymond Manuel A potential reunion with Rajinikanth Discussing Mani's approach to filmmaking and how he selects his cast, Kamal praised the director's unwavering dedication to storytelling. 'If Mani Ratnam finds a compelling story and feels either of us or both of us—is the right fit, he will consider it,' 'He doesn't craft stories for stars; he crafts them for the characters. That's what I admire most about him.' When asked about the possibility of a reunion with Rajinikanth under Mani's direction, Kamal reflected on the director's ethos. 'A good director should never be compelled to do anything beyond his passion,' he said. 'Mani Ratnam should continue to create the kind of cinema he believes in, not what others expect of him.' RKFI's legacy of innovation As the founder of Raj Kamal Films International (RKFI), Kamal takes immense pride in the production house's groundbreaking contributions to Indian cinema. 'Tell me, how many production companies run by a star have introduced first-time heroes?' he asked. 'Sathyaraj broke into the industry as a hero through us. RKFI takes pride in introducing talents like him, who started in villain roles.' Kamal also cited the 1994 film Magalir Mattum, where women were the protagonists. 'We take pride in that,' he said. 'I played a small role in it, more like a sticker you put on your product in that film. As the visionary behind Raj Kamal Films International, Kamal Haasan takes pride in the studio's transformative impact on Indian cinema. — Picture courtesy of DMY Creation A love for cinema Kamal's passion for cinema remains his driving force — this was evident when he was asked about his immediate next. 'First, let me enjoy the fruit or applause you're going to give me. That's the 'protein' that drives me to move forward,' he said. When it comes to unwinding, Kamal prefers watching great films. 'When I want to unwind, watching a great film—one without me in it—is my intoxicant. 'Seeing someone else excel, even surpass me, challenges and motivates me.' 'When I'm not shooting, I'm watching films—sometimes four films a day, continuously for a week. I still find time to meet my friends and write,' he said. On unrealised dream projects On the potential revival of his unrealised projects, such as Marmayogi and Maruthanayagam, which remain etched in the collective memory of Indian cinema enthusiasts, Kamal said he wouldn't mind if the younger generation takes over on such ambitious ventures. 'There should be [a chance for them],' he said, acknowledging the industry's collaborative nature. 'Our industry is like a family, and when my peers advise me that it's not the right time for a project, I listen to them because they are investing their resources alongside me.' The veteran actor-director expressed hope that, under the right circumstances, these projects could eventually materialise. 'If the circumstances align, with your blessings, I hope these movies will see the light of day,' he added, his words carrying both optimism and gratitude. Both Marmayogi and Maruthanayagam were announced with much fanfare, promising to push the boundaries of storytelling and cinematic scale. However, despite early progress, these films faced insurmountable hurdles, leaving fans and the industry yearning for their completion. Exploring survival and identity Reflecting on the themes of survival and identity in Thug Life—which echo the powerful motifs from Nayakan, Kamal also opened up about playing a man pushed to the edge, both on screen and in real life. When asked about being pushed to the edge outside of his roles, Kamal acknowledged the challenges and controversies he's faced over the years. 'I don't have to play it. I'm a man who has been pushed to the edge many times. I don't need to say when or how, but if you look closely, you can see—I've seen it all.' For him, fighting back is rooted in steadfastness. 'In this job, there has been honesty, dedication, and truth. No one can mess with that. They can't punish me for that,' he said, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to his principles. It was a packed press conference when Kamal Haasan came to Malaysia on May 31 to promote his latest film Thug Life, which is slated for theatrical release on June 5 by DMY Creation. — Picture by Raymond Manuel The call for film appreciation As a parting thought, Kamal urged greater recognition for cinema as an art form. 'I urge organisations like yours to promote film appreciation. Many films haven't received the recognition they deserve,' he said. 'Good cinema is the protein in our diet; we can't survive on starch alone.' With Thug Life poised to redefine his legacy, Kamal's commitment to innovation and collaboration ensures that audiences are in for a cinematic treat—one that could indeed surpass even the timeless masterpiece that is Nayakan. DMY Creation is a major film distribution company in Malaysia, particularly known for distributing Hindi and Tamil films. The company, founded by Datuk Mohamed Yusoff, is also involved in bridging cultures through entertainment, fostering connections between Malaysian and Indian film industries.
The Star
3 hours ago
- The Star
Royal regalia reflect cultural legacy
HIS Majesty Sultan Ibrahim may now serve as King of Malaysia but his Johorean roots remain firmly woven into royal protocols, attire and traditions that set him apart from his predecessors. In Malay royal traditions, regalia are not just ornaments but 'instruments of authority' and symbols that convey a Ruler's source of power and sovereign rule. Johor Council of Royal Court president Datuk Dr Abdul Rahim Ramli said each Malay Ruler has his own set of regalia reflecting the customs of his state. 'Royal regalia are instruments of authority, meaning that they exhibit the source of power of the Ruler. Each state Ruler has his own regalia, including Sultan Ibrahim, as His Majesty is also the Johor Ruler. 'However, there are subtle differences between his state regalia and that of the federal throne as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,' he told The Star in an interview. As the King of Malaysia, Sultan Ibrahim's official ceremonial dress is known as the Muskat, complete with a royal headdress, buckle and short dagger, which are part of the royal regalia. The Muskat is a long, black robe adorned with golden embroidery and its design is inspired by the traditional outfits of the people of Oman and Kedah's baju sikap – the official dress of the state officials. His Majesty often dons the uniform of the Supreme Commander of the Malaysian Armed Forces at official events, reflecting his military background. — Photos from Sultan Ibrahim's official Facebook page The King also wears a royal headdress known as Tengkolok Diraja, made of black songket embroidered with gold thread, complete with a royal buckle and keris. Affixed at the front of the royal headdress is a platinum ornament in the shape of a crescent and a 14-pointed star with Malaysia's coat of arms in the centre. Abdul Rahim pointed out that there are subtle contrasts between federal and Johorean royal traditions in attire. 'Although His Majesty's forefather Sultan Abu Bakar designed the baju Melayu teluk belanga, that attire is not used as the official ceremonial uniform. 'With Johor being a modern state, Sultan Ibrahim wears a tunic and military cap. His Majesty also carries a sword instead of a keris due to his military background,' he explained. As the Supreme Commander of the Malaysian Armed Forces, Sultan Ibrahim is also often seen wearing a variation of ceremonial dress representing different branches of the army, police or the Johor Military Forces, complete with berets. In terms of royal regalia, there are similarities and differences in the federal and state instruments. The royal regalia of the Agong includes two royal sceptres known as Cogan Alam (Sceptre of the Universe) and Cogan Agama (Sceptre of Religion). Cogan Alam, a silver mace measuring 162.66cm, is headed with an orb on which a crescent and a 11-pointed star made of gold are surmounted, symbolising Islam as the main religion of the country. The orb is decorated with the crests of the 11 states in the peninsula. These are also made of gold and supported by four tigers symbolising national bravery. The shaft features six stalks of paddy carved in gold. Meanwhile, the Cogan Agama is 155.04cm long and made of silver. The item consists of a large, conical head with a five-pointed star made of gold mounted on a long shaft. Quranic verses are embossed on the headshaft. Abdul Rahim noted that Johor's royal regalia also includes the Sceptre of Universe, marked by a crescent and star symbolising Islam, while the Sceptre of Religion has a head shaped like a betel leaf with the names of Allah and Prophet Muhammad written in Jawi. 'One key distinction since Sultan Ibrahim ascended the federal throne is the use of royal umbrellas. Previously, the kings were shaded with a yellow umbrella during ceremonies and the inspection of guards. 'But since Tuanku became Agong, this practice has stopped. In Johor, royal umbrellas are always closed as His Majesty feels that an unfurled umbrella creates distance between the Ruler and the people. He wants the people to feel close to him, true to the saying of rakyat dan raja berpisah tiada (the people and the king are inseparable),' he added. In another departure from conventional federal protocol, the practice of angkat sembah, where both palms are held together at the forehead to salute or greet the king, is no longer done. 'A simple bow is sufficient,' said Abdul Rahim, citing a long-standing Johor tradition that avoids hand clasping. Other differences can be seen in the royal court music – Istana Negara uses nobat while Johor relies on its military brass band for ceremonies and royal functions, another reflection of its modern roots. Even colour schemes at the federal palace have changed since Sultan Ibrahim's reign. Previously, yellow was the dominant colour at Istana Negara as it is traditionally linked to royalty. 'In Johor, blue is associated with the royal family as it reflects the colours of the state flag. Now, the carpets at the palace in the capital city have been changed to blue in a firm nod to Johor's identity,' he said. As someone who has served five generations of the Johor royal family – from Sultan Ismail to the present Raja Muda of Johor Tunku Iskandar (first son of Johor Regent Tunku Ismail) – Abdul Rahim said Sultan Ibrahim ensures Johor's traits are maintained even when His Majesty is the King. 'These are subtle but meaningful differences,' he added. While the regalia and royal customs may differ between federal and state, what remains constant is His Majesty's love for Johor and commitment to serving the people, both as their state Ruler and as King of Malaysia.
