The Prague Post - Shruti Haasan Reveals Kamal Haasan’s Defense of Her Film Career

Shruti Haasan has opened up about the personal motivations behind her entry into the Indian film industry, highlighting a specific defense offered by her father, veteran actor Kamal Haasan. Speaking in a conversation with her paternal cousin, actress Suhasini Maniratnam, Shruti recounted how Kamal Haasan justified allowing her to pursue acting during an era when it was uncommon for daughters of prominent filmmakers or actors to enter the profession.

The discussion took place during a chat session posted by the media platform Galatta. Suhasini, who herself broke barriers as one of the few daughters of cinema figures to become an actor, prompted Shruti to provide sharp responses to personal questions. When asked about her marital plans, Shruti playfully deflected by asking Suhasini when she intended to divorce her husband, filmmaker Mani Ratnam.

The conversation shifted to Shruti’s professional choices when Suhasini questioned why she chose the film industry over other potential paths. Shruti explained that her decision was driven by personal desire rather than obligation. She noted that few women in India are daughters of cinema figures who have become actors themselves, listing herself, Suhasini, and actress Rekha as examples.

Shruti recalled a specific instance where someone questioned Kamal Haasan about permitting Shruti to join the industry. According to Shruti, her father responded by comparing the stability of the film family to the risks of traditional arranged marriage. "He said, how do you let your daughter be married into an unknown family in an arranged marriage? This is our family. My daughter will be very happy here," Shruti quoted him as saying.

She stated that this analogy has remained with her throughout her career, serving as a reminder of how her father elevates the perception of cinema as a viable and secure environment for his children. Shruti emphasized that Kamal Haasan is an inspiration not merely because he is her father or because he continues to work at age 72, but because of his "detail, precision and commitment" in his craft.

Shruti also shared anecdotes about her early interest in makeup, admitting she used to steal cosmetics from her parents. She noted that her mother, actress Sarika, was less enthusiastic about this habit. Shruti recounted a moment when Kamal Haasan questioned her love for makeup, pointing out the extensive use of cosmetics in his own films, such as "Dasavathaaram." When Shruti defended her interest by citing his own practices, he reportedly conceded with the words, "okay, and let it be," acknowledging that her passion for makeup was inherited from him.

Shruti Haasan’s recent filmography includes a role in Lokesh Kanagaraj’s "Coolie," released in 2025. Earlier this year, she appeared in the special song "Hellallallo" from Buchi Babu Sana’s "Peddi," which also starred Ram Charan and Janhvi Kapoor. Looking ahead, she has projects lined up including the Tamil film "Train" and the Telugu release "Aakasamlo Oka Tara."

E.Cerny--TPP