Legendary Tamil actor Kamal Haasan made his historic debut in Indian Parliament on Friday, July 25, 2025, taking his oath as a Rajya Sabha MP in Tamil. This momentous occasion marks a significant transition for the 69-year-old cinema icon, who has successfully evolved from being a revered film personality to a committed political leader. The veteran actor promised to be the voice of Tamil Nadu in Delhi and stated he would not arrive in Parliament as a mere critic, but as a “committed contributor to the idea of India”.
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Kamal Haasan’s Parliamentary Journey Begins
The veteran actor, widely admired for his contributions to Tamil cinema, chose to take his parliamentary oath in Tamil, underscoring his commitment to linguistic identity and regional representation. The ‘Thug Life’ actor took his oath in Tamil to resounding thumps on the table by fellow Parliamentarians, showcasing the respect and admiration he commands across party lines.
Delivering his oath in Tamil, Haasan underscored his cultural roots and civic commitment, stating, “As an Indian, I will do my duty.” This powerful declaration resonated throughout the Upper House, emphasizing his dedication to serving the nation while maintaining his Tamil identity.
The Political Alliance That Made It Possible
Nominated through the support of the DMK-led alliance, which secured him the Rajya Sabha seat in exchange for MNM’s backing during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Haasan took a significant step forward. Kamal Haasan-led Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) joined the ruling DMK-led alliance in Tamil Nadu in March 2024, marking a strategic political move that would eventually lead to his parliamentary berth.
The DMK agreed to allot one Rajya Sabha seat to Kamal in 2025. In turn, the actor campaigned for the DMK and the INDIA alliance in all the 39 constituencies in Tamil Nadu and the lone seat in Puducherry. This mutually beneficial arrangement demonstrates the evolving dynamics of Tamil Nadu politics.
Makkal Needhi Maiam: A Vision for People’s Justice
The Makkal Needhi Maiam (Centre for People’s Justice) is an Indian regional political party in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, founded by Kamal Haasan at Madurai on 21 February 2018. Haasan’s swearing-in marks a significant milestone for MNM, the political outfit he founded, validating his political vision and organizational capabilities.
The party’s journey from its inception to securing a Rajya Sabha seat reflects Kamal Haasan’s persistent efforts to establish a meaningful political presence. MNM aims to reimagine Tamil Nadu from a centrist perspective, offering an alternative political narrative focused on people’s welfare and justice.
From Cinema Icon to Parliamentary Representative
Kamal Haasan’s transition from cinema to politics represents one of the most watched political transformations in contemporary Indian politics. Known for his versatility as an actor, director, and producer, he has brought the same dedication and perfectionism to his political career. His filmography spanning over five decades has given him unparalleled connect with Tamil audiences, which he now leverages for public service.
The veteran actor’s entry into Parliament comes at a crucial time when regional voices are increasingly important in national discourse. His unique perspective as both an artist and politician positions him to advocate effectively for Tamil Nadu’s interests while contributing to national policy discussions.
Parliamentary Responsibilities and Future Vision
His induction adds not just star power but also an articulate voice to the Rajya Sabha. Kamal Haasan’s extensive experience in creative industries, combined with his political acumen, makes him a valuable addition to the Upper House. His commitment to constitutional values and democratic principles has been evident throughout his political journey.
His induction into the Upper House marks a significant milestone in a political journey that began with idealistic fervour and has evolved into strategic political engagement. This evolution demonstrates his maturity as a political leader who understands the importance of strategic alliances and collaborative governance.
Impact on Tamil Nadu Politics
Kamal Haasan’s Parliament debut deepens DMK-MNM political synergy, creating new possibilities for Tamil Nadu’s political landscape. This alliance represents a convergence of Dravidian ideology with contemporary political aspirations, potentially reshaping regional politics.
The collaboration between established political forces like DMK and newer entities like MNM reflects the dynamic nature of Tamil Nadu politics. Kamal Haasan’s presence in Parliament ensures that Tamil Nadu’s cultural and linguistic interests have a strong advocate at the national level.
Kamal Haasan’s Political Milestones
| Date | Milestone | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| February 21, 2018 | Founded MNM at Madurai | Entry into politics |
| March 9, 2024 | Joined DMK alliance | Strategic political move |
| June 6, 2025 | Filed Rajya Sabha nomination | Parliamentary candidature |
| June 12, 2025 | Elected unopposed | Democratic validation |
| July 25, 2025 | Took parliamentary oath | Historic debut |
Electoral Journey and Democratic Process
On June 12, Kamal Haasan, president of Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), and five others were elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha from Tamil Nadu. They received election certificates from the Returning Officer at the Chennai Secretariat. This unopposed election reflects the consensus-building approach that characterizes mature democratic processes.
Haasan submitted his nomination on June 6 at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat, with prominent figures supporting his candidature. The smooth electoral process and cross-party support demonstrate the respect he commands across political spectrum.
Tamil Nadu Rajya Sabha Representation (2025)
| Party | Seats Won | Key Representatives |
|---|---|---|
| DMK | 5 | Various leaders |
| MNM | 1 | Kamal Haasan |
| Total | 6 | Current allocation |
National Recognition and Media Coverage
The nationwide media coverage of Kamal Haasan’s oath ceremony underscores his national prominence and the significance of his parliamentary entry. SansadTV shared the momentous occasion with hashtag #MonsoonSession2025, highlighting the importance of his swearing-in ceremony.
His decision to take the oath in Tamil has been widely appreciated as a celebration of linguistic diversity and cultural pride. This gesture reinforces the constitutional principle that recognizes India’s multilingual character while maintaining national unity.
MNM Electoral Performance Overview
| Election | Year | Performance | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assembly Elections | 2021 | Contested independently | Learning experience |
| Lok Sabha Elections | 2024 | DMK alliance support | Strategic partnership |
| Rajya Sabha | 2025 | Secured one seat | Parliamentary entry |
Looking Ahead: Expectations and Challenges
As Kamal Haasan begins his parliamentary journey, expectations are high regarding his contributions to legislative processes and policy discussions. His unique background provides him with perspectives that could enrich parliamentary debates on various issues, from cultural policies to technological advancement.
The challenge ahead lies in translating his vision for people’s justice into concrete legislative outcomes. His experience in creative industries, combined with his political understanding, positions him well to contribute meaningfully to discussions on education, culture, and social justice.
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FAQs
Why did Kamal Haasan take his oath in Tamil?
Kamal Haasan chose to take his parliamentary oath in Tamil to honor his linguistic heritage and demonstrate his commitment to Tamil identity while serving as a national representative.
How did Kamal Haasan secure his Rajya Sabha seat?
He secured the seat through DMK alliance support in exchange for MNM’s backing during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, representing strategic political collaboration.
When was Makkal Needhi Maiam founded?
MNM was founded by Kamal Haasan on February 21, 2018, at Madurai, with the vision of creating a centrist political alternative in Tamil Nadu.
What are Kamal Haasan’s main political objectives?
His primary objectives include being Tamil Nadu’s voice in Delhi, contributing to national policy as a committed representative, and promoting people’s justice through democratic means.
How significant is this alliance between MNM and DMK?
The alliance represents a strategic convergence that strengthens both parties – giving DMK additional support while providing MNM with parliamentary representation and political legitimacy.
