Kamal Haasan sworn in as Rajya Sabha MP, takes oath in Tamil- Video

Veteran actor and Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) founder Kamal Haasan on Friday marked a key political milestone as he took oath as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha. The 69-year-old took his oath in Tamil, earning a warm round of applause and table thumps from fellow parliamentarians.

Speaking to reporters outside Parliament, Haasan expressed his pride and gratitude. "I am very proud and honoured," he said, reflecting on the importance of the occasion in his public life.

This marks Kamal Haasan's first national legislative role, after a political journey that began with the launch of MNM in 2018. His nomination to the Upper House came with the support of the DMK-led alliance, which had promised him a Rajya Sabha seat in exchange for MNM's support during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

Haasan filed his nomination on June 6 at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat in the presence of key political figures, including Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, and leaders from DMK allies. In the 234-member Tamil Nadu Assembly, a candidate needs at least 34 votes to secure a Rajya Sabha seat, a number easily met by the ruling alliance backing Haasan's nomination.

Known for his roles in iconic films and, more recently, for his political activism, Haasan's entry into the Rajya Sabha is expected to bring both attention and a voice to Tamil Nadu's interests on the national stage.