Kamal Haasan unveils first-look poster of Sandiyar on 72nd birthday. How he reclaimed the film title he was forced to drop 23 years ago

Kamal Haasan is celebrating his 72nd birthday today, November 7. The day turned extra special for fans as the film veteran unveiled the first look poster of his upcoming film, Sandiyar. The movie, which was tentatively titled KH237, is directed by SU Arun Kumar and is expected to hit the big screens sometime next year. Interestingly, Haasan’s 2004 film Virumaandi was initially titled Sandiyar, but the actor was forced to drop the name as it sparked controversy back then.

Kamal Haasan’s Sandiyar poster

Sandiyar’s poster captures Kamal Haasan in a rugged and intense avatar. His piercing gaze instantly steals the show, and the actor’s classic salt-and-pepper, bearded look adds a layer of mystery and menace to his character.

Kamal Haasan is seen leaning against the window of a car. But upon closer inspection, one can see blood dripping near the door handle, indicating a violent confrontation or an action-packed backstory.

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According to the Times of India, Sandiyar is touted to be a rural revenge action drama, set against the backdrop of Madurai. While the action choreography is handled by Anbariv, the music is composed by Anirudh Ravichander.

Sandiyar title controversy in 2004

The word Sandiyar loosely translates to ‘rowdy’ or ‘troublemaker ’, which was primarily the reason for the controversy 23 years ago. According to a report by The Indian Express, the regional political party Puthiya Tamizhagam, led by K Krishnasamy, alleged that the film glorified caste-based violence.

The political party also claimed it could fuel tensions in southern Tamil Nadu. After a series of protests, Haasan was forced to rename the movie Virumaandi.

Kamal Haasan’s projects

Kamal Haasan was last seen in the 2025 action-drama Thug Life. The film, directed by Mani Ratnam, also starred Sachit Murthy, Ali Fazal, Trisha Krishnan, Joju George, Aishwarya Lekshmi and Mahesh Manjrekar in key roles. Up next, Haasan has collaborated with Rajinikanth for the tentatively titled project KHxRK.