Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan, celebrated for his cinematic brilliance has unexpectedly ignited a fierce controversy in Karnataka — all over a single statement about the Kannada language. At a promotional event for his much-anticipated film Thug Life, Haasan declared, “Kannada was born out of Tamil.” What might have been an academic observation triggered a political and cultural wildfire, uniting rivals across the state in outrage.
Karnataka Film Chamber Takes a Firm Stand
The backlash was swift and unequivocal. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) stepped into the fray, warning that Thug Life would not see the light of day in Karnataka unless Haasan publicly apologized by May 30. KFCC president M Narasimhalu revealed ongoing efforts to communicate with the actor, emphasizing the demand for an apology amid mounting pressure from Kannada activist groups. “We agree what he did was wrong,” Narasimhalu told PTI, underscoring the sensitivity surrounding language pride in the state.
Former KFCC president Sa Ra Govindu issued a sterner ultimatum, vowing a complete ban on the film’s release if Haasan failed to apologize. Echoing the collective sentiment of many Kannada speakers, he added, “We have no sympathy. If there is no apology, protests will be fierce.” Actress and former KFCC head Jayamala reinforced the unity among Kannadigas over language issues, stressing the moral responsibility to recognize and apologize for mistakes that deeply hurt cultural sentiments.
The Politics of Language
The controversy swiftly transcended cinema, drawing condemnation from Karnataka’s top political leaders. BJP state chief BY Vijayendra accused Haasan of disrespecting Kannada and demanded an unconditional apology. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reinforced this view, emphasizing the rich and independent history of the Kannada language. The protests spilled onto the streets with posters burnt and calls for boycotts echoing through Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hubballi.
Haasan’s Attempt at Damage Control
In response, Kamal Haasan described his comment as a “statement of love,” claiming that historians influenced his understanding of linguistic roots. He stressed that his intention was never derogatory and highlighted Tamil Nadu’s pluralistic political history to illustrate the coexistence of diverse communities. Yet, his clarification failed to appease critics, many of whom saw it as too little, too late.
Admitting that “politicians are not qualified to talk about language,” Haasan tried to soften the impact of his remarks, but the wounds inflicted on Kannada pride remain raw.
Beyond Words: The Lingering Impact
This episode reveals the explosive power of language as an identity marker in India’s multilingual landscape. For a figure as respected as Kamal Haasan, the controversy is a stark reminder that even well-meaning words can fracture deeply held cultural sentiments. As Thug Life prepares for release, the real question is whether the film can overcome the storm surrounding its star’s comments — and whether an apology might heal a rift opened by a single phrase.
In Karnataka, the message is clear: when it comes to language, respect is non-negotiable, and the weight of words carries far beyond the silver screen.
Karnataka Film Chamber Takes a Firm Stand
The backlash was swift and unequivocal. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) stepped into the fray, warning that Thug Life would not see the light of day in Karnataka unless Haasan publicly apologized by May 30. KFCC president M Narasimhalu revealed ongoing efforts to communicate with the actor, emphasizing the demand for an apology amid mounting pressure from Kannada activist groups. “We agree what he did was wrong,” Narasimhalu told PTI, underscoring the sensitivity surrounding language pride in the state.
Former KFCC president Sa Ra Govindu issued a sterner ultimatum, vowing a complete ban on the film’s release if Haasan failed to apologize. Echoing the collective sentiment of many Kannada speakers, he added, “We have no sympathy. If there is no apology, protests will be fierce.” Actress and former KFCC head Jayamala reinforced the unity among Kannadigas over language issues, stressing the moral responsibility to recognize and apologize for mistakes that deeply hurt cultural sentiments.
The Politics of Language
The controversy swiftly transcended cinema, drawing condemnation from Karnataka’s top political leaders. BJP state chief BY Vijayendra accused Haasan of disrespecting Kannada and demanded an unconditional apology. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reinforced this view, emphasizing the rich and independent history of the Kannada language. The protests spilled onto the streets with posters burnt and calls for boycotts echoing through Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hubballi.
Haasan’s Attempt at Damage Control
In response, Kamal Haasan described his comment as a “statement of love,” claiming that historians influenced his understanding of linguistic roots. He stressed that his intention was never derogatory and highlighted Tamil Nadu’s pluralistic political history to illustrate the coexistence of diverse communities. Yet, his clarification failed to appease critics, many of whom saw it as too little, too late.
Admitting that “politicians are not qualified to talk about language,” Haasan tried to soften the impact of his remarks, but the wounds inflicted on Kannada pride remain raw.
VIDEO | 'Kannada born from Tamil': Actor Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan) responds to language controversy. Here's what he said:
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 28, 2025
“...Politicians are not qualified to talk about language, they don’t have the education enough to talk about it - that includes me also. So let’s leave… pic.twitter.com/23I6Kaq8NA
Beyond Words: The Lingering Impact
This episode reveals the explosive power of language as an identity marker in India’s multilingual landscape. For a figure as respected as Kamal Haasan, the controversy is a stark reminder that even well-meaning words can fracture deeply held cultural sentiments. As Thug Life prepares for release, the real question is whether the film can overcome the storm surrounding its star’s comments — and whether an apology might heal a rift opened by a single phrase.
In Karnataka, the message is clear: when it comes to language, respect is non-negotiable, and the weight of words carries far beyond the silver screen.
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