Photos: Kamal Haasan makes big political debut

Kamal Haasan launches Makkal Needhi Maiam: "This party is for the people, We have a responsibility. This isn't a one day show," said a jubilant Haasan after unfurling his party flag. Marking his entry into politics, Haasan began his state-wide tour on Wednesday from the house of late President APJ Abdul Kalam in Rameswaram.

Kamal Haasan was accompanied by Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and his party colleague Somnath Bharti, Haasan pointed that his objective is to fight corruption.

Kamal Haasan hoisted his new party flag, announced his new party name - Makkal Neethi Mayyam (People's Justice Forum/Centre)

Tamil actor Kamal Haasan is set to launch his political party in Madurai today. Marking his entry into politics, Haasan began his state-wide tour on Wednesday from the house of late President APJ Abdul Kalam in Rameswaram. He will travel through Ramanathapuram, his hometown, before culminating the tour in Madurai, where he will unveil the name of his party along with its flag and guiding principles. Haasan may also announce the list of office-bearers for the party's district committees.

Kamal Haasan at APJ Abdul Kalam's Memorial.

Kamal Haasan at APJ Abdul Kalam's Memorial.

Kamal Haasan at Ramanathapuram public meet.

Kamal Haasan at Ramanathapuram public meet.

Kamal Haasan at Paramakudi public meet.

Kamal Haasan at Paramakudi public meet.

Kamal Haasan at Manamadurai public meet.

Kamal Haasan at Manamadurai public meet.

Kamal Haasan at Manamadurai public meet.

Kamal Haasan interacts with the public during his rally.

Addressing the media, Haasan remarks that he hopes to hoist his party flag infront of all his supporters. (Express Photo/Arun Janardhanan)

Speaking to the media, Haasan says Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will attend his rally in Madurai this evening.

About his acting career, Haasan says that he will always be proud to have been in the film industry but also adds that this political journey gives him more pride.

Haasan has been meeting leaders of different political parties across the southern states but he hasn't had a single meeting with anyone from the ruling party AIADMK. Haasan says he doesn't like them and hence doesn't want to meet them.

Haasan also addressed the fishermen community at Ganesh Mahal, Rameshwaram. (Express photo by Arun Janardhanan)

Ulaganayagan Kamal Haasan's first stop was Rameshwaram where he visited the house of late President APJ Abdul Kalam.

On beginning his roadshow, Haasan said, "Glad to start my journey from a great man's simple abode."

Kamal Haasan met APJ Abdul Kalam's brother and sister-in-law in the memorial house as well.

Haasan’s plan to interact with students of Kalam’s school was cancelled this morning due to opposition from the government and certain Hindu groups.

"It is neither an act of rebellion nor is it a gathering for glamour," Haasan had said, ahead of the tour, "it is to truly understand as to what the needs of my people are, what is affecting them, what their aspirations are."
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