To answer what defines Kamal Hassan is a mammoth undertaking and should be left to future historians. Nevertheless, there is no harm in trying to understand the enigmatic personality through the lens of contemporary politics, especially: Is he the political messiah that youngsters have been waiting for?

While innumerable people from the film industry have tried and entered the political arena, only a handful have tasted success and less have been able to retain it. What makes Kamal Hassan standout from the crowd is not only the mass youth following he has garnered before touting a party, but also that he has proved himself to be a man of his word by backing up what he says with strong action.

As a pioneer of Indian cinema, Kamal has been at the forefront of embracing and introducing the latest technology into his films. Even though it is a given that Kamal is a stalwart in Indian cinema, it is through his soul-wrenching performances in films like ‘Moondram Pirai’, ‘Nayagan’ and ‘Anbe Sivam’ that he locked in his fan base for surety. 

No doubt youngsters also relate with his raw and realistic portrayal of an unemployed youngster with unbending devotion to personal ideology in ‘Varumaiyin Niram Sivappu’.As youngsters expect a capable leader to lift the state politics from debilitation, Kamal has given hope by standing up to the ocasion. 

One of the character traits that has earned him respect from the youth community is his no-holds-barred approach in professing his heart-felt opinions. It would not be surprising to acknowledge that he might be the only star to be deemed with such respect even from people with differing opinions and varying political identities.

Kamal was one of the first to voice out his strong support against National Eligibility cum Entrance Test(NEET) over which Tamil Nadu’s Anitha ended her life. The socially inclined Kamal has never let a chance go to express his concern for the welfare of ignored communities namely meeting with farmers and fishermen to talk on crucial issues to stepping in the field to assess flood-prone areas through which Kamal has exhibited the qualities of an able, proficient leader.

It might also be foolish to term the actor’s on-field vigour to be stunts for political mileage as he seems to exhibit more verve and a sense of responsibility than some office holding namesake politicians. Fondly referred to as 'Aandavar' (ironically he being a rationalist), people's joy knew no bounds on his expression of interest to become the Chief Minister.

But will the ‘jack of all trades’ in films be able to translate the efficiency into the political ring as well? For starters, he is already half-way there and only seems to propel forward with increasing speed. With elections in 2019, it is almost a given that he will rise as a bold, able and efficient leader to the masses.
  
As the legend turns 63 this auspicious day, Indiagltiz wishes Kamal Hassan a wonderful birthday and a more than successful political career ahead.