Kamal Haasan, the legendary actor, has enthralled audiences with his performances for decades. From making us laugh in “Chachi 420” to evoking deep emotions in “Sadma” and showcasing his versatility in films like “Ek Duuje Ke Liye,” “Dashavatar,” “Indian,” and “Pushpak,” Kamal’s cinematic journey is nothing short of extraordinary. His enduring presence in the film industry speaks volumes about his charm and talent.
However, beyond his professional achievements, Kamal’s personal life has often made headlines. One of the most controversial aspects of his life was his tumultuous relationship with his first wife, Vani Ganapathy, a renowned Bharatanatyam dancer. Their marriage, which lasted for over a decade, ended in an acrimonious divorce, leading to a war of words in the media years later. One of the most significant controversies arose when Kamal alleged that the alimony settlement he paid to Vani left him on the verge of bankruptcy, prompting a strong reaction from his ex-wife.
The Love Story That Turned Sour
Kamal Haasan and Vani Ganapathy first met through mutual friends and eventually collaborated on the film “Melnaattu Marumagal.” At that time, Kamal was making a name for himself in the Tamil film industry, while Vani was a well-known dancer. Their shared artistic inclinations brought them closer, and soon, their professional camaraderie turned into love.
In 1978, they decided to tie the knot. However, the relationship soon faced difficulties. Kamal’s growing stardom, coupled with his reported commitment issues, created tensions in their marriage. Over time, their differences became irreconcilable, leading them to part ways in 1988 after 10 years of marriage.
Kamal’s Explosive Claims About Alimony
In a 2015 interview, Kamal Haasan shocked many by claiming that the alimony settlement with Vani had pushed him into financial ruin. The statement, coming years after their separation, raised eyebrows and reignited public interest in their past relationship. According to Kamal, the hefty alimony payout significantly drained his resources, almost leading him to bankruptcy. This claim, however, did not sit well with Vani, who decided to break her silence.
Vani Ganapathy’s Sharp Response
Vani Ganapathy, who had remained largely private about her marriage and divorce, was compelled to respond to Kamal’s accusations. In an old interview with Deccan Chronicle, she expressed her displeasure over his statements and refuted his claims. She questioned why Kamal was bringing up their divorce decades later and labeled his behavior as obsessive. She stated:
“For 28 years we have been divorced. I have always refrained from mudslinging because it’s a very private affair… but we have both moved on now. Why does he behave like a man obsessed?”
The Truth About Alimony
Vani clarified that while there was an alimony settlement, it was nowhere near the amount that could leave someone as financially successful as Kamal bankrupt. She was particularly hurt by the assumption that all her wealth and success came from the alimony she received. She explained:
“He even refused to give me used appliances from the flat we shared. What could I expect from a man like that?”
She further pointed out the irrationality of Kamal’s claim:
“In what court in the world has alimony been allowed to drive someone to bankruptcy? I was completely shocked when I read it. His ego must have been hurt when I walked out of the marriage, but so much has happened since. He could have said financial crisis and let the subject pass.”
Vani’s Insight Into Kamal’s Personality
Having spent 12 years with Kamal, Vani had a deep understanding of his personality. She revealed how he used his charm and intelligence to sidestep difficult conversations and avoid accountability. She remarked:
“He doesn’t answer a question if he doesn’t want to. Kamal knows better than anyone how to fake a smile and charm his way out of a situation.”
This statement suggested that Kamal was adept at controlling narratives and that his bankruptcy claim was likely another example of him shaping public perception in his favor.
Kamal Haasan’s Relationships Post-Divorce
Following his divorce from Vani, Kamal Haasan’s love life continued to make headlines. He was in a long-term relationship with actress Sarika, with whom he had two daughters, Shruti and Akshara Haasan. However, this relationship also ended in separation. Later, Kamal was linked with actress Gautami, but that relationship, too, did not culminate in marriage.
Despite his tumultuous personal life, Kamal remains one of Indian cinema’s most respected actors. His career has spanned over six decades, and his contribution to the industry is immeasurable. His political aspirations in recent years have also kept him in the limelight, proving that he is far from fading into obscurity.
Conclusion
Kamal Haasan’s allegations against Vani Ganapathy and her sharp rebuttal serve as a reminder of how complicated relationships can be, especially when lived under the public eye. While Kamal accused alimony of causing his financial troubles, Vani stood her ground and defended her dignity. Their story continues to be a compelling chapter in the history of celebrity divorces in India.
As Kamal continues to redefine his career through films and politics, and Vani thrives in her artistic pursuits, their past remains a topic of intrigue. Whether or not the world knows the full truth, one thing is certain—both have moved on, and their legacy extends beyond their personal disputes.