Indian(1996)
Indian is a 1996 Indian Tamil-language vigilante action film directed by S. Shankar. The film stars Kamal Haasan in a dual role as Senapathy and Chandru, alongside Manisha Koirala, Urmila Matondkar, and Sukanya. The story follows a retired Indian National Army freedom fighter who uses the ancient martial art varma kalai to kill corrupt officials. The film was the highest-grossing Tamil film at the time of its release and won three National Film Awards, including Best Actor for Kamal Haasan. It was partially reshot in Hindi as Hindustani and released in 1996. The film was re-released in theatres in June 2024.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Prime Video, Netflix, Eros Now, ShemarooMe, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 9 May 1996
- Director
- Shankar
- Language
- Tamil
- Runtime
- 3h 5m
- Rating
- 8.2/10
Storyline
A retired freedom fighter named Senapathy is disgusted by the corruption in modern India. He begins killing corrupt officials using an ancient martial art. His son Chandru is a small-time broker who takes bribes. When Chandru's corruption causes the death of 40 school children, Senapathy must decide between family loyalty and his sense of justice.
“Justice has no age.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Indian
Cast reunions in this film: Senthil & Goundamani (80 films together), Senthil & Manorama (41 films together), Goundamani & Manorama (40 films together), Kamal Haasan & Manorama (25 films together), Nizhalgal Ravi & Senthil (16 films together), and Ponnambalam & Goundamani (13 films together).
Trivia
- The film's original title was 'Bharateeyudu', but it was changed to 'Indian' for a wider appeal.
- Kamal Haasan performed his own stunts for the action scenes, including the famous fight on the train.
- The film's music composer, A.R. Rahman, used a rare instrument called the shehnai for the patriotic theme.
- It was the first Tamil film to be submitted by India for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
- The movie was partly inspired by real-life vigilante figures like 'Auto' Shankar, a criminal in the 1980s.
- A special makeup artist from Hollywood was hired to create Kamal Haasan's old-age look for the Senapathy character.
- The film was a major box office success and also dubbed into Hindi as 'Hindustani'.