Kamal Haasan’s ‘Thug Life’ Blocked in Karnataka After Kannada Language Row
KFCC halts film release over Haasan's controversial remark; High Court rebukes, demands accountability
Bengaluru, June 3 — The upcoming release of Kamal Haasan’s film ‘Thug Life’ has hit a political and cultural wall in Karnataka, where his recent comments about the Kannada language have drawn sharp public and institutional criticism. For now, the film won’t be seen in theatres across the state, with the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) refusing clearance unless Haasan issues a public apology.
The dispute stems from remarks made during a Chennai press meet, where Haasan said that “Kannada was born out of Tamil.” The line—possibly an attempt to trace shared linguistic heritage—landed poorly in Karnataka, where many have called it inaccurate and culturally dismissive.
Film Chamber Closes the Door for Now
The reaction from Karnataka’s film body was swift and unequivocal. KFCC president Narasimmalu, speaking on Monday, said the organisation could not support the film’s release until Haasan retracted his statement. “There’s no moving forward without an apology,” he said.
There’s been no sign of softening from the KFCC since. In fact, according to insiders familiar with recent discussions, the chamber is facing pressure from Kannada activist groups to remain firm. “This isn’t about politics—it’s about dignity,” one member told local media, requesting anonymity.
Court Intervention Meets Judicial Disapproval
With theatres in Karnataka closed to the film, Raaj Kamal Films International, Haasan’s production banner, approached the Karnataka High Court to request protection and seek release clearance. But the bench didn’t take kindly to the actor’s position.
Justice M. Nagaprasanna, presiding over the matter, asked during the hearing, “Are you a historian? On what basis did you say that?” The court didn’t grant any relief but left the door open for the state to respond, scheduling the next hearing for June 10.
The judge’s remarks were widely reported in regional dailies, and legal experts now suggest that unless Haasan adopts a more conciliatory stance, the case is unlikely to move in his favour.
Political Fallout, Cross-Party Reactions
On the political front, criticism has poured in from across party lines. Former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa, weighing in during an interaction with reporters, said, “An apology doesn’t bring you down. Arrogance never takes anyone up either.”
Even figures from the opposition weren’t too sympathetic. A senior Congress MLA, speaking off the record, noted that Haasan’s refusal to issue a formal apology was “surprising, considering how quickly such matters can spiral.”
Some politicians in Tamil Nadu, however, have backed Haasan, suggesting the controversy is being “deliberately amplified” by linguistic hardliners. But that view hasn’t gained much ground in Karnataka, where linguistic identity often intersects with regional pride.
Kamal Haasan’s Letter Offers Regret—But Not the Words Karnataka Wants
Earlier this week, Haasan issued a written clarification addressed to the KFCC. In the letter, he said he regretted the misunderstanding, but stressed that his comments were “spoken with affection” and not meant to offend. “It genuinely saddens me that my words were seen as disrespectful,” he wrote.
That said, the letter avoided using the word “apology,” which has become a sticking point for those demanding one. The KFCC has said the letter changes nothing.
“This is not an apology, it’s a deflection,” said a senior member of the chamber.
Karnataka Block, But Nationwide Rollout Continues
Despite the standoff in Karnataka, ‘Thug Life’ is still set for release in other states on June 5, along with international markets. Directed by Mani Ratnam and featuring stars like Trisha Krishnan, Silambarasan, and Dulquer Salmaan, the film marks another major collaboration between Ratnam and Haasan after decades.
The music, composed by A.R. Rahman, has already received strong digital engagement, and early trade estimates suggest the film could perform well—though the loss of Karnataka’s box office may dent its opening numbers.
A Bengaluru-based exhibitor noted, “We’ve had to cancel advance bookings. It’s frustrating because there’s clearly an audience for it here.”
Cultural Sensitivity and a Familiar Fault Line
If this feels like déjà vu, it’s because it is. Similar controversies have played out before—most notably with actor Sathyaraj during the Baahubali 2 release, where old comments about water disputes triggered protests in Karnataka.
Southern India, despite its interconnected cultural fabric, remains extremely sensitive when it comes to language. Assertions—however loosely intended—about linguistic origin or hierarchy tend to provoke strong reactions, especially when made by public figures with political or cinematic clout.
For now, Haasan faces a stark choice: maintain his stance and risk prolonged fallout in Karnataka, or issue the apology many are waiting to hear. With just two days to go before release, time may not be on his side.
Source: NDTV
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Rohit Khatri is a travel and lifestyle editor with a flair for storytelling, digital trends, and cultural exploration. With a background in digital marketing and a strong grasp of entertainment, he crafts engaging content that inspires modern journeys and connects with today’s experience-driven audience.
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