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Key Points

Kamal Haasan's upcoming film Thug Life is embroiled in controversy in Karnataka after a remark he made about the Kannada language. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has demanded a public apology from Haasan, citing hurt sentiments. Local groups, angered by the comment, have protested and insisted the film won't release without an apology. Despite the pressure, Kamal Haasan maintains his stance, emphasizing his belief in law and democracy.

Key Points: Kamal Haasan's Thug Life Faces Karnataka Ban Over Language Row

  • Thug Life's release halted by Kannada backlash
  • Haasan's comment stirred regional sentiments
  • KFCC demands apology for Kannada remarks
  • Protests by Kannada groups continue
2 min read

Thug Life won't release in Karnataka without Kamal Haasan's apology, says KFCC President

Kamal Haasan's Thug Life is banned in Karnataka unless he apologizes for his Kannada remarks.

"People of Karnataka are angry with Kamal Haasan. - M. Narasimhalu, KFCC President"

Chennai, May 31

Actor Kamal Haasan's upcoming film, Thug Life, is facing trouble in Karnataka after the actor's recent remark on the Kannada language sparked anger among local groups, including the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), which has banned the film's release until the actor issues a public apology.

While speaking to ANI, KFCC president M. Narasimhalu said that people in Karnataka are upset with Haasan for his comment that "Kannada is born out of Tamil," which he reportedly made during a promotional event in Chennai. Narasimhalu added that if the actor does not "apologise" before the movie's slated release, it will not be allowed to screen in Karnataka.

"People of Karnataka are angry with Kamal Haasan. We have also sent a message to the South Film Chamber. The distributors have decided that if he does not apologise before the release of his film on the 5th, it will not be allowed to release here..." he said.

The controversy has led to several protests in Karnataka by the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and other Kannada organisations.

In response to the growing backlash, Hassan stood by his statement, saying he believes in law and democracy.

Terming India a "democratic country," the actor stated that he wouldn't "apologise" to anyone for his actions if he is "not wrong." Pro-Kannada organisations have demanded a public apology from him for allegedly hurting the sentiments of Kannada people.

Speaking to media personnel outside the DMK party headquarters in Chennai on Friday, Haasan said, "It is a democracy. I believe in law and justice. My love for Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala is genuine. Nobody will doubt it except for those who have an agenda. I've been threatened earlier too, and if I am wrong, I would apologise; if I'm not, I won't."

Thug Life is directed by Mani Ratnam and stars Kamal Haasan, Trisha Krishnan, and Silambarasan TR in the lead roles.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Language pride is important, but banning films isn't the solution. As a Kannadiga myself, I think we should focus on promoting our language positively rather than reacting to every comment. Let people watch the film and judge Kamal Haasan's work separately from his statements.
P
Priya M.
This is getting ridiculous now! First Hindi imposition, now Tamil-Kannada fights. Why can't we celebrate all Indian languages equally? 🤦‍♀️ Kamal sir should have been more careful with his words though - as a public figure, he should know better.
S
Sanjay T.
As someone from Karnataka, I'm disappointed by Kamal Haasan's remarks. But banning films sets a dangerous precedent. Tomorrow any state can ban any film for any reason. The CBFC exists for a purpose - let them do their job.
A
Ananya R.
Both sides need to calm down! Kamal sir has worked in Kannada films before and has always shown respect. Maybe it was a slip of tongue or taken out of context. But KFCC's reaction seems too harsh - this affects hundreds of theatre workers who depend on big releases.
V
Vikram B.
Language debates aside, I'm more concerned about the economic impact. Kannada film industry benefits when other language films release here, and vice versa. This tit-for-tat helps no one. Let's not forget we're all part of Indian cinema at the end of the day.
N
Neha P.
Honestly tired of these language wars! 😤 As a movie lover, I just want to watch good films regardless of language. Kamal Haasan is a legend and Mani Ratnam's films are events. Hope good sense prevails and Karnataka audiences don't miss out on this experience.

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