Kamal Haasan Approaches Karnataka HC Over ‘Thug Life’ Ban Following Language Row

Last Updated Jun - 02 - 2025, 05:03 PM | Source : Fela News

Kamal Haasan moves Karnataka High Court after KFCC halts the release of 'Thug Life' over his Kannada-Tamil remark. The actor seeks protection and clearance for

Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan has moved the Karnataka High Court after the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) stalled the release of his upcoming film Thug Life. The KFCC's decision comes in the wake of controversy over Haasan’s recent remarks about the Kannada language, which triggered strong backlash across Karnataka. Haasan, through his production company Rajkamal Film International, has filed a petition seeking intervention to allow the release and ensure security at screenings.

During a promotional event for Thug Life, Haasan reportedly said that “Kannada was born out of Tamil,” a statement that stirred political and cultural tensions. Several political leaders, including Karnataka BJP chief BY Vijayendra, condemned the remark and demanded an apology. Vijayendra criticized the statement as “cultural arrogance” and emphasized the need for mutual respect among Indian languages. The KFCC later decided to halt the release of the film, citing public sentiments and rising protests.

In response to the backlash, Haasan issued a clarification, stating that his comment was made with affection and based on insights from historians and linguists. He stressed that discussions on language origins should be left to experts, not politicians, including himself. In his plea to the High Court, Haasan has requested the judiciary to restrain the state government, police, and KFCC from interfering with the film’s release and also sought adequate security arrangements to ensure smooth screenings across Karnataka.