Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, June 3: Actor Kamal Haasan’s controversial remark claiming “Kannada originated from Tamil” has ignited a storm in Karnataka, drawing widespread criticism from Kannada groups and provoking strong demands for a public apology. However, Haasan’s unyielding refusal to apologise has now led to a major legal setback, with the Karnataka High Court delaying the release of his upcoming film Thug Life in the state.
The film, originally scheduled to release on June 5, has been put on hold after the High Court adjourned the matter to June 10, making it clear that no screening would be permitted until further orders.
Amid growing backlash, Thug Life’s producers had approached the High Court, seeking intervention to allow the film's Karnataka release. However, Haasan remained adamant. “I will not apologise under any circumstance. I have done nothing wrong. Those protesting against me are acting with political agendas,” the actor asserted.
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce also took a firm stand, stating: “If Kamal Haasan does not issue a public apology, there is no question of allowing the release of his film in Karnataka.”
During the hearing held on Tuesday, Justice Nagaprasanna of the Karnataka High Court made strong observations: “We will consider the petition only if he apologises. How can someone claim that one language originated from another? Is Kamal Haasan a historian to say Kannada came from Tamil? Even C. Rajagopalachari had apologised for such a statement in the past. The current situation is a result of his own words. Such comments should not be made. Kamal Haasan is not a private individual, he is a public figure. Let him apologise first, only then will we consider the petition.”
Following these remarks, Kamal Haasan’s counsel sought time until 2:30 pm to submit a response.
Later in the day, the legal representatives informed the court that the producers have decided not to release Thug Life in Karnataka for the time being. They also conveyed that the team is willing to hold discussions with the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce.
Taking note of this development, the High Court postponed further proceedings to June 10, effectively stalling the film's release in the state.