Kamal Haasan's troubles deepen; Government may ban his films for refusing to apologize

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): A controversy has erupted in Karnataka over a statement made by actor Kamal Haasan regarding the Kannada language. Karnataka's Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shivraj Thangadagi, has warned of a ban on Kamal Haasan's films because the actor has refused to apologize for his remarks.

The controversy began during the audio launch of his upcoming film Thug Life, where Kamal Haasan stated that "the Kannada language was born from Tamil." At the event held in Chennai, he said, “My life and family are Tamil. Your (Kannada) language was born from Tamil, so you’re also part of it.”

This statement sparked sharp reactions in Karnataka. Several organizations, especially the Kannada Rakshaka Vedike, called it an insult to the Kannada language and culture. Protests were held in Belagavi, Mysuru, Hubballi, and Bengaluru, and posters of Kamal Haasan were burned.

Minister Shivraj Thangadagi said, “No matter how big someone is, speaking against the Kannada language, Kannadigas, or the land and culture of Karnataka will not be tolerated.” He also wrote a letter to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) demanding a ban on Kamal Haasan’s films.

KFCC gave Kamal Haasan until May 30 to issue an apology, but the actor refused. KFCC President M. Narasimhulu said, “We have asked theater owners and distributors not to release Thug Life in Karnataka unless an apology is made.”

Responding to the matter, Kamal Haasan said, “I said it with love. If I am wrong, I will apologize — otherwise, I won’t.” He cited Tamil Nadu’s inclusive culture, mentioning that people from various communities have become Chief Ministers there.

The film Thug Life is scheduled to release on June 5, but its release in Karnataka now seems to be in jeopardy. Kannada organizations have also filed a complaint with Bengaluru Police against the actor, though no FIR has been registered yet.