Actor Kamal Haasan is facing intensified backlash in Karnataka after refusing to apologise for his controversial remark that "Kannada is born out of Tamil." The statement, which he made during a recent public appearance, has drawn sharp criticism from pro-Kannada groups, triggering widespread protests and calls to ban his upcoming film Thug Life across the state.
In the past few days, members of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and other regional outfits have taken to the streets, burning Haasan's effigies and posters in various cities. The protests escalated further after Haasan stood by his comment, saying:
“Love will never apologise. I will apologise only if I am wrong. If I am not, I will not.”
This defiant stance has only hardened opposition to the release of Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam and scheduled to premiere on June 5. On Friday, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) announced a complete ban on the film in the state. The next day, pro-Kannada groups led by LR Shivarame Gowda, Lok Sabha MP, visited multiple cinema halls and warned theatre owners against screening the film.
Adding another layer of controversy, Kannada superstar Shiva Rajkumar expressed support for Kamal Haasan, praising his contributions to Indian and Kannada cinema. This prompted protestors to gather outside Shiva Rajkumar’s residence, with videos circulating online showing stones being hurled at his house.
The situation remains tense, with both the film's release and the broader implications of linguistic identity and regional pride under scrutiny. Despite the growing outcry, there has been no indication from Kamal Haasan or the film’s producers of any intention to delay or cancel the Karnataka release.
