Actor and Rajya Sabha Member Kamal Haasan delivered a strong message at a Chennai event, emphasising the transformative power of education in dismantling dictatorship and oppressive systems such as Sanatanam. Speaking at a program organised by the Agaram Foundation, Haasan urged people to embrace education as their only weapon for real change. His comments came at a politically sensitive time when debates around Sanatan Dharma and its role in caste discrimination are intensifying across India.
Kamal Haasan’s Call for Education Over Violence
In his speech, Haasan declared,
“Don’t take anything else in your hands, only education. We cannot win without it because the majority can make you lose. Majority fools will make you lose… That’s why we must hold on to education firmly.”
By stating this, Haasan reinforced the idea that societal transformation can only be achieved through knowledge, critical thinking, and empowerment rather than aggression or conflict.
Political Context of His Statement
Haasan’s remarks coincided with recent statements from Maharashtra’s NCP-SP leader Jitendra Awhad, who claimed that “Sanatan Dharma” was responsible for caste atrocities and clarified that Hindu Dharma and Sanatan Dharma are not the same. The timing of Haasan’s comments adds weight to the ongoing discourse around religion, caste, and social equality in India.
Criticism of NEET and Impact on Students
The actor-politician also spoke against the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) introduced in 2017 for medical admissions. According to him, NEET has “reduced” the chances for many deserving students, especially from underprivileged backgrounds. He believes that such centralised examinations create barriers for rural and economically weaker students who may not have access to the same level of coaching and resources.
Agaram Foundation’s Role in Education
Kamal Haasan has been deeply involved with the Agaram Foundation, which works for educational access and equality. He shared a recent interaction with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, where he emphasised that NGOs like Agaram are not seeking financial aid but merely permission to work without bureaucratic hurdles. The CM reportedly assured him that steps were being taken to make such processes smoother.
Leadership Beyond Power
Haasan concluded his speech by reflecting on the essence of true leadership.
“Leadership isn’t about staying in power, it’s about making change happen, even if your name fades away with the waves.”
This statement underlines his belief that the measure of a leader’s worth is not in their tenure but in the lasting positive change they inspire.
Kamal Haasan’s Entry into Parliament
On July 25, 2025, Haasan entered the Parliament for the first time as a Rajya Sabha Member, taking his oath in Tamil. His induction was supported by the DMK-led alliance as part of a political agreement with his party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), during the 2024 general elections. This marks a major milestone in his political journey, expanding his influence from Tamil Nadu politics to national-level legislation.
Past Controversies
Haasan has not been immune to political controversies. In May 2025, during the ‘Thug Life’ movie audio launch in Chennai, he reportedly stated that “Kannada was born out of Tamil,” a remark that sparked backlash in Karnataka. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) even banned the film’s release until Haasan clarified his stance. The actor later explained that he never intended to offend anyone and expressed his respect for the Kannada language and its people.
Why His Words Matter
Kamal Haasan’s emphasis on education resonates strongly in a country still grappling with inequality, caste discrimination, and political polarisation. By framing education as the antidote to dictatorship and oppression, he aligns himself with reformist thought leaders who believe in systemic change through awareness and knowledge.
Kamal Haasan’s Chennai speech was more than just a political statement — it was a call to action for citizens to invest in learning, critical thinking, and social reform. Whether one agrees with his political positions or not, his core message remains clear: education is the key to breaking societal chains and building a fairer, more progressive India.
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