In a unique blend of classical mythology and contemporary storytelling, Kamal Haasan has taken inspiration from the ancient Indian epic, Mahabharata, for his character in the acclaimed movie “Vishwaroopam.” The versatile actor and filmmaker has often been lauded for his ability to seamlessly merge traditional elements with modern narratives, and this film is no exception.
The character played by Kamal Haasan in “Vishwaroopam” bears striking similarities to Arjuna from the Mahabharata. In the epic, Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers, adopts the guise of a eunuch dance teacher, Brihannala, during the Virata Parva, the fourth book of the Mahabharata. Kamal Haasan’s character, an Indian intelligence officer based in the United States, adopts a similar disguise to infiltrate a terrorist organization. This clever nod to classical literature adds depth and intrigue to the storyline.
“Vishwaroopam” weaves together action, drama, and