Kamal Haasan Faces Backlash Over Kannada Language Comments Ahead of 'Thug Life' Release
Controversy Surrounds Kamal Haasan's Remarks
Kamal Haasan has stirred controversy just before the launch of his film 'Thug Life' due to his statement suggesting that the Kannada language originated from Tamil. This comment sparked significant backlash from the people of Karnataka, leading to a wave of outrage on social media. Film organizations in Karnataka have even threatened to prohibit the film's release in the state unless Haasan issues an apology. In response to the backlash, Haasan approached the Karnataka High Court, seeking protection against any opposition to the film's debut.
Karnataka High Court's Response
However, the Karnataka High Court criticized Haasan for his comments regarding the Kannada and Tamil languages. The court remarked, “This country is divided along linguistic lines. A public figure should refrain from making such statements. What has resulted from this? Unrest and disharmony. The people of Karnataka merely requested an apology. Now, you seek protection here. On what grounds did you make that statement? Are you a historian or a linguist? You understand the significance of the film, being produced by Mani Ratnam, yet you cannot make such claims.”
Haasan's Stance on Apology
According to reports, the bench stated, “If you wish to apologize, we will accept it. However, there is no apology present. Whether you are Kamal Haasan or anyone else, you cannot disregard the feelings of the public.”
Previously, Haasan had declined to apologize for his remarks, asserting that India is a “democratic country” and that he would not apologize unless he believed he was in the wrong. Speaking to reporters outside the DMK party office in Chennai, he expressed, “This is a democracy. I trust in law and justice. My affection for Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala is sincere. Only those with an agenda would doubt it. I have faced threats before, and if I am wrong, I will apologize; if not, I will stand firm.”
Details About 'Thug Life'
Regarding 'Thug Life', Kamal Haasan has teamed up with filmmaker Mani Ratnam after a gap of 38 years. The film is set to hit theaters on June 5.