Date: August 26, 2025
In a delightful revelation, Shruti Haasan recently shared a charming story about her father, the iconic Kamal Haasan, during a promotional event for her upcoming film Coolie. The actress disclosed that the veteran actor learned Bengali not for a cinematic role but to impress the legendary actress and filmmaker Aparna Sen, with whom he was infatuated. This heartwarming anecdote has set social media abuzz, offering fans a glimpse into a romantic side of the multifaceted star.
Speaking alongside her Coolie co-star Sathyaraj, Shruti recounted, “Did you know why Dad learned Bengali? It wasn’t for films—it was to impress Aparna Sen because he was in love with her!” The comment came as Sathyaraj praised Shruti’s multilingual abilities, drawing parallels with her father’s knack for mastering languages. Kamal Haasan, celebrated for his linguistic versatility and roles in films across Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and more, evidently went above and beyond to win the heart of the Bengali cinema icon.
Adding intrigue to the story, Shruti revealed that Kamal Haasan paid homage to Aparna Sen in his 2000 film Hey Ram. In the historical drama, which he directed and starred in, Rani Mukerji’s character—a Bengali woman and the love interest of Kamal’s character—was named Aparna. This subtle nod hints at the deep admiration Kamal held for Sen, which evidently influenced his creative choices. Hey Ram, a poignant exploration of India’s Partition and Mahatma Gandhi’s assassination, featured a stellar cast, including Shah Rukh Khan and Naseeruddin Shah, and remains a landmark in Indian cinema.
Aparna Sen, a Padma Shri awardee, is a towering figure in Bengali cinema, known for her nuanced performances and directorial masterpieces like 36 Chowringhee Lane, Parama, and Mr. and Mrs. Iyer. Her latest project, Ei Raat Tomar Amaar, co-starring Anjan Dutt and directed by Parambrata Chattopadhyay, is generating significant buzz ahead of its August 30, 2025, release. The film, which explores three decades of a couple’s relationship, has already captivated audiences with its evocative poster.
Shruti’s revelation about her father’s admiration for Sen adds a romantic layer to Kamal Haasan’s storied career, which spans over six decades and includes classics like Nayakan and Vishwaroopam. Fans are now reminiscing about his contributions to cinema while marveling at this personal anecdote. Meanwhile, Shruti continues to carve her own path with projects like Coolie and Salaar 2, proving her versatility as an actor and musician.
This endearing tale of Kamal Haasan learning Bengali to woo Aparna Sen is a testament to the passion and dedication that define his legacy. As fans eagerly await Sen’s next cinematic offering, this story serves as a charming reminder of the intersections between art and affection in Indian cinema.
