To make such allegations, the court inquired as to whether he was a linguist or historian.
“Where is the source of the material? No language can emerge from another. “And what has occurred—discord,” the court declared.
The comments were made during the hearing of a petition asking for guidelines to guarantee the peaceful screening of the Haasan-starring film Thug Life in Karnataka.
Kamal Haasan Faces Backlash Over Kannada-Tamil Remark, Court Urges Apology
Actor and politician Kamal Haasan has found himself at the center of a controversy following comments made during the audio launch of his upcoming film Thug Life in Chennai. His remarks about the origin of the Kannada language have sparked strong reactions across Karnataka, with both legal and public pressure mounting on him to apologize.
Court Slams Haasan for Insensitive Comments
A court hearing a petition filed by Raajkamal Films International, the production company co-founded by Haasan, emphasized that freedom of speech does not mean one can hurt public sentiments. The bench, reacting strongly to Haasan’s comments, stated:
“Jala, Nila, Bashe – these three things are important to citizens… Language is a sentiment attached to a particular people. You have said something to undermine that.”
The court added that a single apology could have resolved the issue, criticizing Haasan for not offering one despite the uproar:
“There is no apology in it… Now you come here seeking protection. On what basis have you made the statement?”
The court went further and urged Haasan to withdraw the controversial statement, warning against hurting the emotions of the people of Karnataka.
“Crores can be earned from Karnataka… but if you don’t need the people (of Kannada), then leave the revenue. We will not permit anyone to take public sentiments for a ride.”
It added that a simple expression of regret such as:
“It is in this context I spoke (but) if it has hurt anyone I apologize”
could have diffused the matter.
Haasan’s Comments Spark Protests Across Karnataka
The controversy began when Haasan, addressing Kannada actor Shivarajakumar during the event, said:
“Uyire Urave Tamizhe” (My life and my family is the Tamil language)
and
“Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil… hence you are part of it.”
These comments were seen by many in Karnataka as disrespectful and dismissive of the distinct identity of the Kannada language.
Karnataka Film Chamber and Pro-Kannada Groups Demand Apology
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has taken a firm stance, stating that Haasan’s film will not be allowed to release in the state unless he issues a public apology. Pro-Kannada organizations have also staged protests, demanding an immediate retraction and apology.
However, Haasan has stood by his comments, saying:
“I will only apologize if I am wrong.”
He clarified that his comments were made “out of love”, and added:
“A lot of historians have taught me language history and I did not mean anything.”
Haasan Given 24 Hours to Respond
With pressure mounting, the KFCC has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to Haasan to apologize. Meanwhile, protests continue, and the film’s release in Karnataka hangs in balance.
This controversy highlights the deep emotional connection people have with their language and the responsibility public figures carry when addressing such sensitive subjects.