In a film announcement that left fans and critics aghast, legendary South Indian actor Dhanush has joined forces with Adipurush director Om Raut for a new and grand project: Kalam – The Missile Man of India. The movie will narrate the remarkable life of one of India’s most popular Presidents and one of its greatest scientist visionaries, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, from the seashore town of Rameswaram to the nation’s highest seat of power, Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The news was officially announced at the world-famous Cannes Film Festival, where the creators released the title poster of the film. The news immediately captured the nation’s imagination, not just because of the emotional significance of Kalam’s legacy, but also because of the unexpected alliance of Dhanush and Om Raut, who had earlier attracted huge criticism for his work on Adipurush.
A Surprising Collaboration that Stunned Fans
Om Raut, who has experienced success with Tanhaji but was subject to tremendous backlash for his recent venture Adipurush, has now ventured into a new type of storytelling. With Kalam, he is looking to regain his reputation in Indian cinema by concentrating on a universally respected personality, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, who is renowned for his humility, excellence in aerospace science, and relentless dedication towards India’s growth.
Dhanush, however, is credited with his range and depth as an actor. From Asuran to Raanjhanaa, he has consistently demonstrated that he can undertake emotionally taxing and demanding roles. His choice to collaborate with Om Raut—given the latter’s recent backlash—is regarded as a bold and strategic choice, one which prioritizes content over controversy.
This unusual combination has generated interest. The audience cannot wait to know how Raut will translate Kalam’s enormously complicated and deeply motivating life, and how Dhanush will interpret the character on screen.
Poster Unveiled at Cannes: A Grand International Launch
Kalam’s announcement was not another social media release. It was glamorously launched at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, a testament to filmmakers’ belief in the global appeal of the film. The title poster boasts the silhouette of a rocket launch merged with that of a man lost in contemplation—representing Kalam’s two roles as visionary scientist and deep-thinking intellect.
Om Raut shared the poster on Instagram with a stirring caption:
“From Rameswaram to Rashtrapati Bhavan, the journey of a legend begins… India’s Missile Man is coming to the silver screen. Dream big. Rise higher. #KALAM—The Missile Man of India.”
This moving message has already started making waves among film circles and patriotic forums alike.
The Legacy of APJ Abdul Kalam: A Story Worth Telling
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s life itself is a movie script. Born in a modest family in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, he reached the pinnacle of being one of India’s leading scientists, contributing significantly to the country’s nuclear and missile missions. As a commanding figure at ISRO and DRDO, he contributed to India’s technological progress.
He became India’s 11th President later, who is still recalled as a “People’s President.” His humility, vision of an India on the path to development, and affection for children and education won him hearts across generations. His untimely death in 2015 plunged the nation in collective sorrow.
To bring such a colossal life on the screen is no small achievement. It requires emotional intelligence, cinematic maturity, and great respect. If executed well, Kalam could turn out to be one of the most potent biopics of Indian cinema.
High-Profile Production and Expectations
Kalam will be co-produced by some of the largest players in the Indian film industry—Abhishek Agarwal, Anil Sunkara, Bhushan Kumar, and Krishan Kumar. These producers are recognized for their investment in content-oriented and large-scale productions, which creates expectations regarding the visual scale and storytelling artistry of this biopic.
The producers have made it clear that this film is not just another commercial project. They aim to create an emotionally charged, visually rich tribute to one of India’s most beloved icons. The movie will likely be made in multiple languages, ensuring it reaches a wider audience across the country and overseas.
Raut and his team are said to have already started researching extensively. They are going through historical accounts, personal memoirs, and Kalam’s own writings such as Wings of Fire and Ignited Minds for authenticity. Pre-production has started, and filming will commence later this year.
Fans React with Mixed Emotions
The announcement has unleashed a torrent of reactions. While some are excited to have Kalam’s life story on the cinema screen, part of the audience is skeptical whether Om Raut can tackle such a sensitive and intellectual topic. His previous film, Adipurush, was panned for poor VFX, poor writing, and inaccurate depiction of mythological figures.
Still, others are of the view that Kalam provides Om Raut with a much-needed redemption storyline. With Dhanush as the driving force behind the project, hopes have been high. Fans feel that if anyone can pull off the depth and dignity for Kalam’s character, it is Dhanush.
A Film with Global Relevance
Dr. Kalam’s life goes beyond the confines of a region and a nation. His ideas on innovation, integrity, and education connect internationally. This biopic, if done well, can be a star at international festivals and win accolades outside Indian shores.
The movie is most likely to be out in 2026, on the death anniversary of Dr. Kalam as the 15th one. With each piece of news coming in about casting, music, and production timeline, the buzz around Kalam is bound to intensify.
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Final Thoughts
Kalam – The Missile Man of India is more than a film. It’s a cinematic homage to a man who personified intelligence, humility, and immeasurable vision. With Dhanush as the lead actor and Om Raut looking to redeem himself creatively, the film has the burden of history and the potential of inspiring greatness.
If executed with the respect and dignity it merits, Kalam may turn out to be a milestone in Indian biographical films. The world now looks up to Om Raut and Dhanush to come up with a film befitting the name of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
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