Kamal Haasan’s Comments Spark Outrage, Case Registered in Bengaluru
Prominent actor Kamal Haasan’s recent remarks claiming that “the Kannada language originated from Tamil” have sparked widespread controversy in Karnataka. He made these comments during the audio launch event of his upcoming film Thug Life, leading to intense backlash from Kannada-speaking communities.
In response to his statement, protests erupted in various parts of Karnataka. The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV), a pro-Kannada organization, strongly condemned Kamal Haasan’s remarks and lodged a formal complaint at the RT Nagar Police Station in Bengaluru.
The complaint alleged that Kamal Haasan’s comments had hurt the sentiments of the Kannada people and were capable of inciting hostility between Kannada and Tamil communities. The KRV demanded immediate legal action against him. Consequently, a case has reportedly been registered against Kamal Haasan.
Kamal Haasan Issues Apology
Following the backlash, Kamal Haasan responded to the controversy by issuing an apology. He stated that his remarks were made with affection and without any intention to offend anyone. He further commented that political leaders are not qualified to speak on the history of languages, and such discussions should be left to historians and linguistic experts.
Nevertheless, the controversy triggered a wave of protests across several locations in Karnataka. In some areas, demonstrators burned posters of the film Thug Life and raised slogans against Kamal Haasan. Film analysts have noted that this dispute could potentially affect the film’s release in Karnataka.
Political leaders from Karnataka have also weighed in on the matter. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked that Kamal Haasan lacks proper understanding of Kannada language history and stated that insulting other languages is inappropriate. Karnataka BJP Chief B.Y. Vijayendra also expressed strong disapproval of Kamal Haasan’s comments. In this context, several political leaders have called for a ban on Kamal Haasan’s films in Karnataka.