Kamal Haasan Faces Backlash Over Kannada Language Comments Amid Film Promotion

Controversy Surrounds Kamal Haasan's Remarks

Kamal Haasan, currently engaged in promoting his upcoming movie 'Thug Life' alongside director Mani Ratnam, has stirred controversy with his statement suggesting that the Kannada language originated from Tamil. This comment has led to significant backlash on social media, with numerous users calling for a boycott of his film. In response, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has demanded an apology from Haasan and has threatened to prohibit the film's release in Karnataka.

M Narasimhalu, the KFCC president, stated, "Various Kannada organizations have requested a ban on his film. We convened to discuss this issue and concluded that he must apologize. We believe his comments were inappropriate, and we are attempting to reach out to him for a discussion."

Sa Ra Govindu, a former KFCC president, emphasized, "We have no sympathy for Kamal Haasan. If he fails to issue a public apology soon, we will stand with Kannada activists and protest vigorously. We will not permit the film's release unless he publicly apologizes."

In a recent interview, Haasan attempted to clarify his remarks regarding the Kannada language, stating, "What I expressed was meant with affection. Historians have educated me on language history... I intended no offense. Tamil Nadu is a unique place, having had leaders from various backgrounds, including a Menon, a Reddy, a Tamilian, and a Kannadiga as Chief Ministers."

He continued, "Let historians, archaeologists, and language specialists handle these complex discussions. Depending on one's perspective, interpretations may vary. This is not merely an explanation; love does not require an apology."

The film 'Thug Life' features a star-studded cast, including Trisha, Silambarasan, Abhirami, Sanya Malhotra, Ashok Selvan, Aishwarya Lekshmi, Joju George, Nassar, Ali Fazal, Pankaj Tripathi, Rohit Saraf, and Vaiyapuri.