When Legends Embrace: Shiva Rajkumar’s Musical Tribute and Unforgettable Memories with Kamal Haasan

Image Source: AP7AM

Kannada superstar Shiva Rajkumar delivered an emotional tribute to Kamal Haasan at the grand audio launch of Thug Life in Chennai, turning the event into a celebration of admiration and cinematic camaraderie.

Key Highlights:

Shiva Rajkumar was the chief guest at the Thug Life audio launch, held at Sai Ram Engineering College, Chennai, on May 24.
He opened his speech by declaring himself a lifelong fan of Kamal Haasan, stating, "I like his smile, I like his eyes, I like his personality. I like everything about him. I always catch his films first day, first show."
In a touching gesture, Shiva Rajkumar got off the stage to hug Kamal Haasan, recalling a cherished memory from his youth when he met Kamal at his home in Bengaluru. He humorously admitted, "I didn't bathe for three days after he hugged me. I wanted his odour to linger on me."
The actor reminisced about Kamal Haasan’s heartfelt phone call after his cancer surgery in Miami, December 2024. Kamal, calling from Chicago, expressed his joy and was moved to tears upon hearing Shiva was cancer-free, a moment Shiva described as feeling like his own father was speaking to him.
Defending Kamal Haasan’s cinematic legacy, Shiva Rajkumar shared, "Even if people criticise Kamal sir’s films, I only say good things. I have even fought people for that."

To conclude, Shiva Rajkumar sang a few lines from Kamal Haasan’s iconic song "Ore Naal Unnai Naan" from the 1978 film Ilamai Oonjal Aadukirathu, leaving the audience visibly moved.

The event also marked the reunion of Kamal Haasan and director Mani Ratnam after 38 years, with Thug Life set for release on June 5.

Source: India Today