The release of Kamal Haasan's much-anticipated film Thug Life is now under threat in Karnataka due to a growing controversy over a remark the actor made regarding the Kannada language. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), along with Kannada organisations such as the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, is demanding a public apology from the veteran actor following his statement that “Kannada is born out of Tamil,” made during the audio launch event of the film in Chennai.
On Friday, KFCC representative Sa Ra Govindu publicly announced that the chamber may halt the release of the film in Karnataka unless Haasan apologises. While the Chamber stated that they do not wish to use the word “ban,” they emphasized that they are under pressure from several pro-Kannada groups and must stand by their cultural sentiments.
KFCC President Narasimhalu explained the position, saying, “We cannot use the word 'ban' and we don’t want to... but there is pressure from pro-Kannada groups. Kamal Haasan has not yet apologized, and we must represent the emotions of our people.”
The controversy sparked immediate backlash, with protests erupting in cities like Belagavi. Protestors from the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike tore down posters near cinema halls and demanded that Thug Life not be screened in the state until Kamal Haasan retracts his comments. The situation escalated further as the Kannada community viewed the actor’s statement as disrespectful to the state's linguistic heritage.
Even Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah weighed in on the matter, dismissing Haasan’s claim and asserting that Kannada has a "long-standing history." Similarly, Congress MLA Rizwan Arshad expressed disappointment, calling the statement unnecessary and divisive, especially at a time when national unity is crucial.
In response to the backlash, Kamal Haasan has tried to clarify his intent, suggesting that his words were misinterpreted and came from a place of admiration for linguistic history. However, his refusal to issue a formal apology has only intensified the demands from cultural bodies in Karnataka.
Directed by Mani Ratnam, Thug Life features an ensemble cast including Kamal Haasan, Trisha Krishnan, and Silambarasan TR. The film has been generating buzz for its production scale and star power, but the recent developments have cast a shadow over its release, particularly in the Karnataka market. As tensions continue, all eyes are on Kamal Haasan and the production team to see if a resolution can be reached before the scheduled release date.
