Kamal Haasan sparked controversy during the audio launch of his upcoming film Thug Life by stating that the Kannada language was born out of Tamil.
This remark angered Kannada people, leading to a police complaint filed by Karave Praveen Shetty accusing Haasan of hurting Kannada sentiments and provoking tensions between Kannadigas and Tamils. Although the complaint was accepted, no FIR has been registered yet.
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) warned that Thug Life could be banned in Karnataka if Haasan did not apologize publicly by May 30.
KFCC leaders stressed the importance of respecting linguistic pride and threatened protests and a film boycott. Actress and former KFCC leader Jayamala supported Kannada speakers and urged Haasan to acknowledge the offense.
Political leaders, including BJP’s BY Vijayendra and Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, also demanded a sincere apology, emphasizing Kannada’s rich and independent history.
Protests broke out in Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hubballi, with demonstrators burning posters and calling for boycotts.
Kamal Haasan responded by calling his comment a “statement of love” based on historical views he had encountered and insisted no offense was intended. However, many found this explanation inadequate.
Thug Life is set for a worldwide release on June 5, and it remains uncertain how the controversy will affect its reception in Karnataka and beyond. This incident underscores the deep sensitivity around linguistic identity and cultural heritage in the region.
కర్ణాటక సిఎం సిద్ధరామయ్య తన పదవికి రాజీనామా చేస్తున్నట్లు ఈరోజు ఉదయం ప్రకటించారు. డెప్యూటీ సిఎం డీకే శివకుమార్ ఆ…
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