Cannes, France – Renowned director Om Raut, best known for Tanhaji and Adipurush, has officially announced his next ambitious project — a biographical film titled “Kalam”, based on the life of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, India’s former President, acclaimed aerospace scientist, and Bharat Ratna awardee.
The announcement was made in grand style at the 78th Cannes Film Festival, where the first look poster of the film was also unveiled. The poster features actor Dhanush, who will essay the role of the iconic Missile Man of India. Behind him, a powerful rocket launch in motion encapsulates Dr. Kalam’s journey from Rameswaram to the apex of India’s space and missile programs.
“Missile Man of India”: A Story of Vision and Grit
The film’s tagline — “Missile Man of India” — is a direct tribute to Dr. Kalam’s legacy in India’s defense and space missions. Known for his work with ISRO and DRDO and his pivotal role in India’s 1998 nuclear tests, Kalam remains one of the most beloved and respected figures in Indian history.
Speaking about the project, Dhanush expressed deep honor:
“I feel incredibly fortunate and humbled to play such an inspirational and visionary man. Dr. Kalam’s story is one of hope, resilience, and limitless dreams.”
A Dream Team Behind the Scenes
The biopic is being jointly produced by Abhishek Agarwal, Anil Sunkara, Bhushan Kumar, and Krishan Kumar. The production houses involved include T-Series, Abhishek Agarwal Arts, and AK Entertainments.
Director Om Raut, who faced mixed reactions for his previous mythological epic Adipurush, appears to be making a sharp pivot toward real-life heroism with Kalam. This marks Raut’s third directorial feature, and early online reactions suggest that audiences are optimistic and intrigued.
A social media user commented:
“A biopic on Kalam is not just a film—it’s a responsibility. Kudos to Om Raut for taking it up with someone as talented as Dhanush.”
From Cannes to Cinemas
The choice to unveil the project at Cannes 2025 underlines the team’s vision to give Kalam a global platform and international visibility. The announcement follows India’s growing presence at international festivals and comes alongside other cultural milestones, such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan dazzling the red carpet in a Banarasi saree with a 500-carat ruby necklace, and the 31st anniversary of Sushmita Sen’s historic Miss Universe win.
What to Expect
While no official release date has been confirmed yet, Kalam is expected to be a sweeping biographical drama chronicling Dr. Kalam’s early life in Tamil Nadu, his scientific breakthroughs, his role in shaping India’s missile programs, and his tenure as the People’s President.
More details on the cast, music, and shooting schedule are expected to be revealed in the coming months.
As India looks forward to a cinematic tribute to one of its greatest minds, Kalam promises to be a film that not only narrates the journey of a scientist but also ignites the dreams of a new generation.
