Kamal Haasan’s Bollywood exit: underworld grip exposed, ethics still in question

Kamal Haasan, a revered figure in Indian cinema, made a conscious decision to exit Bollywood due to the pervasive influence of the underworld on the industry.
Reports revealed that criminal elements had a stronghold on financing, casting decisions, and even the personal safety of artists, creating an environment Haasan found untenable.
"It wasn’t due to a lack of roles or recognition—it was his discomfort with the underworld’s grip on the industry during that period," sources say.
Choosing integrity over compromise, Haasan returned to South Indian cinema, where he pursued a career grounded in artistic freedom.
"Instead, Haasan returned to South Indian cinema, where he continued to build a path rooted in artistic freedom and integrity," the reports note.
His departure underscores the ethical challenges Bollywood has faced, despite recent efforts to reform.
"While Bollywood has since made efforts to clean up its act, Haasan’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining ethical standards in the creative world," experts emphasize.
Haasan’s story remains a cautionary tale about the need for transparency and ethics in the film industry, highlighting the ongoing struggle between creative expression and criminal interference.

Kamal Haasan left Bollywood due to discomfort with the underworld's influence over financing, casting, and artist safety. Choosing artistic freedom, he returned to South Indian cinema. His exit highlights ongoing ethical concerns in Bollywood despite recent cleanup efforts.