Om Raut on casting Dhanush to play 'Kalam': "It's about soul, not stardom"

Filmmaker Om Raut has officially confirmed his next feature film—a biopic on Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Titled Kalam: The Missile Man of India, the project was revealed at the Cannes Film Festival 2025, where Raut also offered a first look into the film’s concept and creative direction.

At the event, Raut reflected on his long-standing connection with Dr. Kalam’s work and philosophy. “The teachings of Dr. Kalam are instilled in every youth,” he said. “I read Wings of Fire when I was in college, and I can say that everything I am doing today, and everything I aspire to be, is inspired by the teachings in that book. It changed my perspective on life and that is exactly why I am standing here today.”

Raut elaborated on the core principles shaping the biopic. “I’ve always been deeply inspired by Dr. Kalam’s journey. From what I’ve observed, his life was anchored in three key aspects. First is education—he was a great teacher who placed immense value on quality learning. Second is innovation—particularly indigenous innovation. He encouraged us to develop within our country. And the third is resilience—the willpower to stay committed to our purpose,” he explained.

The idea was developed in collaboration with producer Abhishek Agarwal. “When he asked if I’d be interested, I told him I was already working on something similar,” Raut recalled. T-Series and Bhushan Kumar also joined the venture, marking their third project with Raut.

Addressing the casting of Dhanush, Raut emphasized the significance of the role. “When portraying Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, it’s essential to capture not just his achievements, but also his spiritual journey and teachings. That’s the most challenging part of a biopic like this. And I don’t think there could have been a better choice than Dhanush to bring this spiritual and intellectual depth to life on screen.”

With a screenplay by Saiwyn Quadras and production backing from Abhishek Agarwal Arts and T-Series, the film sets out to chronicle Kalam’s trajectory—from Rameswaram to Rashtrapati Bhavan—through the lens of conviction, knowledge, and national spirit.