The Kannada Film industry Responds With Anger and Condemnation to Kamal Haasan's Kannada Remarks
Kannada Film Industry Reacts Strongly to Kamal Haasan's Language Remark, "Thug Life" Faces Boycott
Bengaluru, Karnataka - June 2, 2025 - The Kannada film industry has responded with widespread anger and condemnation to veteran actor Kamal Haasan's recent remark that "Kannada was born out of Tamil," leading to a full-fledged boycott of his upcoming film, "Thug Life," in Karnataka. The controversy has ignited fierce linguistic pride and put the state's film body and many prominent personalities on a collision course with the Tamil star.
The immediate and strongest reaction came from the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), which swiftly announced a statewide ban on "Thug Life" unless Kamal Haasan issues a public apology. KFCC President M. Narasimhalu, in strong words, stated that the decision to withhold screenings was taken independently by theatre owners and distributors, reflecting the deep public sentiment. "Let him go to court. None of our theatres will screen it," Narasimhalu reportedly told media on Monday, doubling down on the KFCC's stance even as Haasan's production house moved the High Court.
Perhaps one of the most keenly observed reactions has been that of Shivarajkumar, the Kannada superstar who shares screen space with Kamal Haasan in "Thug Life." Initially, Shivarajkumar appeared to defend Haasan, suggesting his words might have been misinterpreted. However, facing significant backlash from pro-Kannada groups and the public, he quickly clarified his position.
"What Kamal Haasan said about the Kannada language wasn't right," Shivarajkumar stated in a recent press interaction. He clarified that while he had clapped during Haasan's speech at the "Thug Life" audio launch, he did not fully comprehend the controversial remark at the time. He emphasized his unwavering loyalty to Kannada, saying, "All the languages are important to us. But when it comes to the mother tongue, Kannada is the first priority, there's no doubt about that. I can give my life for Kannada." He also cited his father, the legendary Dr. Rajkumar, as the epitome of Kannada pride. While maintaining his respect for Haasan as a senior actor, Shivarajkumar has made it clear that his allegiance lies firmly with his mother tongue.
Industry Condemnation:
The sentiment expressed by the KFCC and Shivarajkumar resonates across a significant portion of the Kannada film fraternity. Many industry veterans and new-age actors have echoed the demand for an apology, viewing Haasan's comment as a direct affront to Kannada's independent linguistic identity and rich history.
While specific quotes from other individual actors like Naveen Krishna on this particular incident are not widely reported, the collective response from pro-Kannada organizations, often comprising members and supporters from the film industry, has been vociferous. These groups have engaged in protests, tearing down "Thug Life" posters and burning effigies of Haasan, demanding immediate action.
The outrage from the film industry has been further fueled by political leaders in Karnataka, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj Tangadagi, who have publicly criticized Haasan's remarks and supported a ban on his films. This collective pressure has put Haasan's production company in a difficult position, prompting them to seek legal recourse in the Karnataka High Court to ensure the film's release.
The controversy highlights the deep cultural and linguistic sensitivities prevalent in the region. For the Kannada film industry, this is not merely a business dispute but a matter of defending their heritage and language against what they perceive as an ill-informed and disrespectful comment. The outcome of the legal challenge and the future of "Thug Life" in Karnataka will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for similar linguistic and cultural disagreements in the future.
Bengaluru, Karnataka - June 2, 2025 - The Kannada film industry has responded with widespread anger and condemnation to veteran actor Kamal Haasan's recent remark that "Kannada was born out of Tamil," leading to a full-fledged boycott of his upcoming film, "Thug Life," in Karnataka. The controversy has ignited fierce linguistic pride and put the state's film body and many prominent personalities on a collision course with the Tamil star.
The immediate and strongest reaction came from the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), which swiftly announced a statewide ban on "Thug Life" unless Kamal Haasan issues a public apology. KFCC President M. Narasimhalu, in strong words, stated that the decision to withhold screenings was taken independently by theatre owners and distributors, reflecting the deep public sentiment. "Let him go to court. None of our theatres will screen it," Narasimhalu reportedly told media on Monday, doubling down on the KFCC's stance even as Haasan's production house moved the High Court.
Shivarajkumar's Shifting Stance:
Perhaps one of the most keenly observed reactions has been that of Shivarajkumar, the Kannada superstar who shares screen space with Kamal Haasan in "Thug Life." Initially, Shivarajkumar appeared to defend Haasan, suggesting his words might have been misinterpreted. However, facing significant backlash from pro-Kannada groups and the public, he quickly clarified his position.
Recent:
"What Kamal Haasan said about the Kannada language wasn't right," Shivarajkumar stated in a recent press interaction. He clarified that while he had clapped during Haasan's speech at the "Thug Life" audio launch, he did not fully comprehend the controversial remark at the time. He emphasized his unwavering loyalty to Kannada, saying, "All the languages are important to us. But when it comes to the mother tongue, Kannada is the first priority, there's no doubt about that. I can give my life for Kannada." He also cited his father, the legendary Dr. Rajkumar, as the epitome of Kannada pride. While maintaining his respect for Haasan as a senior actor, Shivarajkumar has made it clear that his allegiance lies firmly with his mother tongue.
Industry Condemnation:
The sentiment expressed by the KFCC and Shivarajkumar resonates across a significant portion of the Kannada film fraternity. Many industry veterans and new-age actors have echoed the demand for an apology, viewing Haasan's comment as a direct affront to Kannada's independent linguistic identity and rich history.
While specific quotes from other individual actors like Naveen Krishna on this particular incident are not widely reported, the collective response from pro-Kannada organizations, often comprising members and supporters from the film industry, has been vociferous. These groups have engaged in protests, tearing down "Thug Life" posters and burning effigies of Haasan, demanding immediate action.
Also Read:
Political Pressure:
The outrage from the film industry has been further fueled by political leaders in Karnataka, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj Tangadagi, who have publicly criticized Haasan's remarks and supported a ban on his films. This collective pressure has put Haasan's production company in a difficult position, prompting them to seek legal recourse in the Karnataka High Court to ensure the film's release.
The controversy highlights the deep cultural and linguistic sensitivities prevalent in the region. For the Kannada film industry, this is not merely a business dispute but a matter of defending their heritage and language against what they perceive as an ill-informed and disrespectful comment. The outcome of the legal challenge and the future of "Thug Life" in Karnataka will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for similar linguistic and cultural disagreements in the future.
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