CONTROVERSY OF KAMAL HASSAN

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 is a sharp observation about a recent controversy involving Kamal Haasan. Here's why it resonates:

1.  **The Pun: "Better sue than 'sorry'":**

    *   This cleverly twists the common proverb "Better safe than sorry."

    *   It directly references Kamal Haasan's recent decision to **sue** several media outlets (notably DT Next and The Daily Thanthi) for defamation, seeking significant damages (₹100 cr).

    *   The implication is that instead of just apologizing or staying quiet ("sorry"), he chose the aggressive legal route ("sue") to protect his reputation and send a message.

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2.  **The Controversy ("The Row"):**

    *   The "row" stems from reports claiming Kamal Haasan made comments during the audio launch of his film "Indian 2" (directed by S. Shankar) linking the film's plot about vigilante justice to the Kallakurichi hooch tragedy (where illicit liquor caused many deaths).

    *   These reports were widely circulated and sparked criticism, accusing him of insensitivity or exploiting a tragedy for film promotion. Haasan and his team vehemently denied he made any such link.

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3.  **"Fits the filmmaker's script":**

    *   **Thematic Consistency:** Kamal Haasan, both as an actor-filmmaker and politician (MNM founder), has consistently positioned himself as a crusader against corruption, injustice, and social ills. His films ("Indian," "Indian 2," "Vishwaroopam," "Virumaandi") often tackle these themes head-on, featuring protagonists fighting systemic rot. Taking legal action against media outlets he perceives as spreading falsehoods aligns perfectly with this persona – he's fighting back against what he frames as "media corruption" or "defamation."

    *   **Narrative Control:** By suing, Haasan isn't just defending himself; he's actively shaping the narrative. He transforms from someone reacting to accusations into someone proactively fighting a larger battle for truth and justice. This *becomes* part of his ongoing public story – the fearless fighter taking on powerful entities.

    *   **Political & Brand Alignment:** For his political brand (Makkal Needhi Maiam) and his artistic brand, this controversy and his strong response reinforce core messages: anti-establishment, anti-corruption, pro-accountability, and fearlessness. It keeps him relevant in the news cycle, especially around his film's release.

    *   **Leveraging the Controversy:** While likely not the *intended* script, the row and his subsequent legal action serve a purpose. It draws immense attention to "Indian 2" and its core theme (fighting corruption/inefficiency). His forceful denial and lawsuit frame him as a victim of malicious reporting, garnering sympathy and reinforcing his image as a target of powerful interests because he speaks truth to power.

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**In essence, the headline argues:**

               Kamal Haasan's decision to sue rather than merely apologize or ignore the controversy is a strategic move. It's not just damage control; it's an active continuation of the very narrative he crafts through his films and politics – that of the principled fighter taking on corrupt systems (in this case, allegedly irresponsible media). The controversy, while potentially damaging initially, ultimately feeds into and reinforces the image and themes central to "Kamal Haasan the icon," perfectly fitting the script he has written for his public life.

               **The Risks:** Of course, this strategy carries risks. Legal battles can be protracted and messy. If public perception turns against his version of events, it could backfire. However, for a figure whose brand is built on dissent and fighting perceived injustice, the lawsuit is a powerful tool that aligns perfectly with his established narrative. It's a high-stakes move, but one that fits his character.