Kannada actor Shiva Rajkumar has responded to the controversy surrounding Kamal Haasan’s recent remark that “Kannada was born from Tamil,” made during a promotional event for Thug Life in Karnataka.
The statement has sparked widespread backlash from Kannada audiences and pro-Kannada groups.
Addressing the issue, Shiva Rajkumar, who is also facing trolling, clarified that his applause during Kamal’s speech was misunderstood. “I clapped because he said I was like his nephew, not in support of his language comment,” he explained.
He also reaffirmed his cultural roots, stating, “Kannada is my mother tongue. I would give my life for it.”
The controversy has escalated rapidly. Members of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike visited Victory Cinema in Kamakshipalya, urging theatre owners to cancel Thug Life screenings. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has also taken action, placing a statewide ban on the film’s release until Kamal issues a formal apology.
Kamal Haasan, however, has maintained his stance. “If I’m wrong, I’ll apologise. If not, I won’t. My love for Karnataka is genuine. Some are twisting my words to serve their agenda,” he said.
Directed by Mani Ratnam, Thug Life stars Kamal Haasan, Silambarasan TR, and Trisha Krishnan. Karnataka has historically been a strong market for Ratnam’s films.
According to trade, Ponniyin Selvan – Part 1 collected 28 crores and Part 2 20 crores in the state—second only to Tamil Nadu. Kamal’s Indian 2 also earned a respectable 8 crore in Karnataka.
With tensions rising, the fate of Thug Life’s release in Karnataka—and its box office potential—remains uncertain.
