The much-anticipated Kamal Haasan–Mani Ratnam collaboration, Thug Life, hit theatres worldwide today, igniting excitement across Tamil Nadu, especially in Chennai.
However, the film was not released in Karnataka, due to an ongoing row over Kamal Haasan’s controversial comments on the Kannada language.
Giant cutouts and posters adorned the venue, but celebratory chaos was understandably toned down.
Many fans of Silambarasan (Simbu), who plays a key role in the film, showed up in support.
“I came all the way from Chengalpattu. I’m a Simbu fan and can’t wait to watch him in action,” said Suraj, a college student.
Thug Life marks a historic reunion — Kamal Haasan, director Mani Ratnam, and composer AR Rahman return together after decades. The cast includes Trisha, Nassar, and Ashok Selvan, with music that’s already topping charts.
“The Mani-Kamal-Rahman combo is historic. The songs are already chartbusters. The movie will be a blockbuster,” said Lakshmi, a tech professional in Chennai.
The film’s absence from Karnataka theatres stems from remarks made by Kamal Haasan about the Kannada language, which angered fringe groups who demanded an apology. Kamal refused, citing his freedom of speech:
“My comments were made out of love, not malice. I will not apologise,” he said.
Though the Karnataka High Court suggested a retraction or apology, Kamal’s legal team defended the actor’s right to artistic expression. Talks with the Karnataka Film Chamber are expected, but no resolution has been reached yet.
Despite the controversy, expectations for Thug Life are sky-high. Kamal’s Vikram and Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan were box office hits, and this film is seen as another potential record-breaker.
“We came as a family. Kamal sir never fails. This movie will be a superhit,” said Ram, attending with his wife and children.
As fans across Tamil Nadu celebrate the film’s release, all eyes now turn to Karnataka, where the fate of Thug Life remains uncertain.
