Auditions can be nerve-wracking even for experienced models and big actors who often feel the pressure when it’s time for “lights camera action.” However there are always a few exceptional talents who radiate confidence and passion for acting. One such star who made waves from South Indian cinema to Hindi films left a lasting impression during his very first audition. Surprisingly his audition didn’t take place in a fancy studio or under bright lights but under the glow of a simple room lamp. This marked the beginning of his career as a child artist. After the release of the film both the movie and the young actor became the talk of the industry leaving an unforgettable impact. Which is this movie and actor? The film we are talking about is Kalathur Kannamma and the star is Kamal Haasan. Today Kamal Haasan is recognised as one of the leading pan-India stars. He has been active in South Indian cinema and Hindi films for many decades. Kalathur Kannamma was his first film as a child artist and the audition for it took place under the light of a lamp in a room. Kamal Haasan had gone to the house of AV Meiyappan one of the films makers for some work. Recognising Kamal Haasans acting talent Meiyappan tested his skills by shining the light of a lamp on his face. Impressed by his performance Kamal became a part of the film. The film was a massive hit. Originally made in Tamil it was later remade in Telugu as Mavoori Ammayi. Released on October 20 1960 the film had an impressive theatrical run. It played for 102 days at the Plaza Theatre in Chennai 105 days at Maharani Talkies and Rakshi Talkies 112 days at Wellington Theatre and 100 days at a theatre in Trichy. The film marked a turning point in Kamal Haasan’s career. However an interesting turn of events occurred during the making of the film when the director T. Prakash Rao was replaced due to differences of opinion between him and the producer over the shooting of a song.