Kamal Haasan is certainly one of the greatest stars in the Indian cinema industry, especially renowned for his work in regional films. Throughout his decades-long career, he has changed himself into parts spanning a vast range of genres and personas. The actor celebrates his 70th birthday today, November 7. On his special day, let’s look at 10 of his most mind-blowing avatars, displaying his passion to the art.

Aalavandhan (2001)

In this 2001 action thriller, Kamal Haasan plays dual roles as twins Nandu and Vijay—one is a psychotic murderer, while the other is a revered army commander. Audiences were deeply impacted by the actor’s skill in playing both roles as well as his distinct physical attributes.

Anbe Sivam (2003)

Kamal Haasan once again played a wounded and disfigured socialist, Nallasivam, in this 2003 slice-of-life drama film directed by Sundar C. He starred alongside R. Madhavan, who portrayed Anbarasu, a commercial director with a contrasting attitude to that of Haasan’s role. The seasoned actor’s transition into the scarred, smart and empathic Nallasivam was remarkable.

Apoorva Sagodharargal (1989)

In this 1989 Tamil-language film, the renowned actor portrayed the dual role of twins Appu and Raja, who were separated at birth and grew up in two distinct households. Haasan’s depiction of Appu, a dwarf clown, was extraordinary, considering the technological restrictions of the period. He made history by playing a dwarf nearly half his height.

Chachi 420 (1997)

Chachi 420 is among Kamal Haasan’s most recognizable roles, according to many children of the 1990s. Tabu played the role of Shrimati Lakshmi Godbole, a woman, in the 1997 comedy film. Many people still adore the role because of the elegance and beauty with which he played it.

(2008) Dasavathaaram

In this Tamil-language science fiction movie, Kamal Haasan played ten characters instead of just one or two. This movie demonstrated his flexibility by having him portray both former US President George Bush and a Vaishnavite priest from the 12th century. The actor’s attempt to distinguish each role was well received.

Hey Ram (2000)

Kamal Haasan played the part of Saket Ram, an 89-year-old Hindu who was near death in the movie Hey Ram. When his wife Aparna was raped and killed during the partition, he reminisces about his life. He made the decision to pursue revenge after this. The audience enjoyed Haasan’s change from a cool-headed, collected individual to a vindictive man.

Indian (1996)

Kamal Haasan had two roles to play. Senapathy, a 70-year-old vigilante freedom warrior, plays the first part, while Chandrabose, also known as Chandru, is a small-time trader. The performer elevated bodily transformation and prosthetic makeup to a new level. He even received a National Award for his depiction of the morally pure, disciplined Senapathy who fights corruption in post-independence India. Owing to the success of Indian’s second installment, a third is underway for release on January 24, 2025.

(1989) Indrudu Chandrudu

The 70-year-old performer enacted another double character on film. In this 1989 dark comedy film, Kamal Haasan portrayed a corrupt and cruel mayor and his look-alike Chandrudu, a happy-go-lucky teenager. The actor went the additional mile to portray the mayor, where he had to expand his nostrils with pen caps and apply gum on his top lips to broaden them.

Kalki 2898 AD (2024)

In the newly released science fiction movie Kalki 2898 AD, Kamal Haasan played Supreme Yaskin, a formidable adversary. He once again showed his adaptability on film by transforming into the role using prosthetic makeup.

Vishwaroopam (2013)

Kamal Haasan was able to portray two personas in this 2013 espionage thriller: Viswanathan, a timid classical dancer, and an undercover RAW agent navigating the perilous realm of terrorism. The actor delighted the spectators with his duality on the screen, portraying two polarly different roles with pure elegance.