Kamal Haasan refuses to apologise for his controversial comment about the Kannada language being “born out of Tamil.” Because of this, he has decided not to release his new film, Thug Life, in Karnataka for now.
The controversy began earlier this week during an event in Chennai to launch Thug Life. Kamal Haasan, while speaking, said, “Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil,” referring to Kannada actor Shiva Rajkumar present at the event. This statement quickly triggered strong reactions across Karnataka.
Many people in Karnataka took offence, feeling their language and culture were insulted. Film distributors and theatre owners in Karnataka responded by deciding not to screen the film until Kamal Haasan apologises. This means local fans will miss the film’s release for now.
The matter moved to the Karnataka High Court, where Kamal Haasan’s lawyer appeared. The lawyer said Kamal Haasan had great respect for Kannada but did not issue an apology as the court demanded. The court warned Kamal Haasan that free speech comes with limits, especially when it hurts public sentiments.
The judge used a vivid metaphor: “You cannot unscramble a scrambled egg,” urging Kamal Haasan to apologise and mend fences.
The court expressed frustration, saying Kamal Haasan’s stance looked like “ego.” They said that apologising could help ease tensions and allow the film’s release.
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Without an apology, the ban in Karnataka would probably continue. Kamal Haasan’s team also withdrew a petition seeking security at theatres, saying there was no need since the film won’t be releasing there now.
Pro-Kannada groups have strongly called for an apology. Sa Ra Govinda, a member of the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), told news agency ANI, “Kamal Haasan can close this by saying one simple sorry to Kannadigas… and we will accept it wholeheartedly.”
The KFCC president, M Narasimhulu, echoed this sentiment, warning that no apology means no release.
For Kamal Haasan, this controversy isn’t just about a movie. He is a respected actor and politician, soon to be a Rajya Sabha member with backing from Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK party. His words carry weight, and many expect him to take responsibility for them.
The political heat also rose as the Karnataka BJP condemned Kamal Haasan’s remark. BJP state chief V Yediyurappa accused him of insulting Kannada language and people. This turned the row into both a cultural and political battle.
The ongoing dispute shows how delicate language and regional pride remain in India. A single statement can spark massive reactions and impact business, art, and politics alike.
For now, Thug Life fans in Karnataka will have to wait. The Karnataka High Court will hear the case again on June 10. That hearing may decide if the film can finally reach theatres or remain blocked.
