New Delhi. Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting, Smt. Ambika Soni today inaugurated the Three day Retrospective of Shri Kamal Haasan’s films at Siri Fort. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said Retrospective of films provided an opportunity to view the work of an artist over a span of time. It represents the spectrum of work, showcasing the sensitivity of the artist towards different characters, ideas, issues and images. A retrospective of films was a visual feast for the movie buff, as it provided an opportunity to view classics and also reflect their impact on society and human life.

Elaborating further, the Minister said, Shri Kamal Haasan as an artist over a period of time, balanced Cinema with Realism. His portrayal of different characters, created a pan India phenomenon, breaking the barriers of age groups, language and commercial interest. Some of the character portrayals left a deep imprint across all generations. His multilingual cinematic versatility ensured a fan following reiterating his mass appeal and acceptance of his cinema as a unique artistic expression. Acknowledging the contribution of Shri Kamal Haasan to Cinema, the Minister said each of the films being screened during the festival had a strong social message.

The Minister also stated that India’s, brand identity as a nation of entertaining cinema was not due to Bollywood alone. It was the creative genius of cinema in all languages that also contributed immensely to the multicultural identity of the Indian film movement. The Cine Artists also contributed in positioning India’s imprint as a nation with rich cinematic history, world wide by being Goodwill Ambassadors for the country.

In order to celebrate 50 years of Shri Kamal Haasan’s contribution to Indian Cinema, Directorate of Film Festivals has organised the 3 day “Retrospective of Kamal Haasan’s Films” from 2nd- 4th July, 2010 at Sirifort Auditorium II. Films such as, Anbe Sivam, Virumaandi, Thevar Magan, Sagara Sangamam, Dasavatharam amd Nayagan would be screened during the three day festival.