''The toughest role that I played in'' Dasavatharam'', was not any of the characters you saw on screen. It was that of being the scriptwriter'' says Kamal Haasan. The master filmmaker was in Kochi yesterday to promote the movie'' Dasavathaaram'' in Kerala.

''I had told this story to another director before narrating it to K S Ravikumar. When the former was too doubtful about its success, Ravikumar instantly realized its potential of becoming a big hit. He was always open to ideas, and a lot of inputs from many has gone into the shaping up of the movie'' explained the master actor.

Kamal Haasan was visibly relieved and joyful after the immense worldwide success of the much delayed movie.

He added, 'money is not the only criteria when you make movies. What is the use with a bagful of money, if the audience does not recognize you as a good actor?''

"I have had my share of successes and failures in life. It is all the applause and appreciation from you people, that takes me move forward'' affirms Kamal Haasan.

When asked to comment on the row between trade organizations in the Malayalam film industry, he said, "cinema is more important. Organizations exist only when the film does", answered one of the most brilliant actors of our times.