Actor Kamal Haasan faced sharp criticism from the Karnataka High Court over his refusal to apologise for a controversial statement about the Kannada language, which has sparked backlash and disrupted the release of his upcoming film Thug Life in the state.
Haasan approached the High Court seeking protection and clearance for his film’s release after the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) opposed it unless he issued a public apology. During the hearing, the court sternly rebuked the actor, stating, “You may be Kamal Haasan or anybody, you cannot hurt the sentiments of the masses.”
The court questioned Haasan’s credentials to comment on linguistic origins, saying, “Are you a historian or a linguist? What basis do you have to claim Kannada was born from Tamil?” The bench further noted that a public figure must act responsibly, as such remarks could cause “unrest and disharmony.”
The controversy began after Kamal Haasan, during a promotional event in Chennai, commented that Kannada originated from Tamil—prompting widespread outrage from pro-Kannada groups and political leaders. The KFCC has maintained its stance, with president M. Narasimhalu saying, “We have not done anything illegal. But the film will not be screened unless he apologises.”
Haasan’s legal team argued that his comments were taken out of context and intended to highlight cultural ties between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The statement was reportedly made in a light-hearted exchange with Kannada star Shiva Rajkumar, who is said to have defended Haasan’s intent.
Efforts are reportedly underway by the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce to mediate the dispute.
Directed by Mani Ratnam, Thug Life is a big-budget film featuring Kamal Haasan, Trisha Krishnan, and Silambarasan TR, with music by A R Rahman. The project marks Haasan and Ratnam’s reunion after their 1987 classic Nayakan, with an estimated budget of ₹300 crore.
Addressing the controversy, Kamal Haasan previously said, “Love will never apologise,” reiterating that his words were rooted in cultural appreciation, not disrespect.
The court’s decision on the matter remains pending as tensions continue between Haasan and pro-Kannada factions.
