Bengaluru: With the release date of actor Kamal Haasan’s much-awaited film Thug Life fast approaching on June 5, the controversy surrounding his remarks that “Kannada is born out of Tamil” remains unresolved, as the actor has yet to issue a public apology.
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has maintained a strict statewide ban on the screening of the film, backed by numerous theatre owners. Pro-Kannada organisations, including Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, have intensified protests and warned theatres against releasing the film, condemning Haasan’s comments as a direct insult to Kannada language and culture.
KFCC president M Narasimhalu reiterated that no theatre in Karnataka will screen Thug Life unless Kamal Haasan apologises publicly. The controversy, which has stirred deep emotions tied to linguistic pride and identity, has even reached the Karnataka High Court, where Haasan has filed a petition seeking protection for the film’s release and security for theatres and viewers.
Despite advance bookings commencing in other states, Karnataka remains the lone holdout, with no screenings scheduled so far. Directed by Mani Ratnam and featuring a star-studded cast, the film’s release in the state hangs in the balance amid ongoing protests and strong local opposition.
In this charged atmosphere, the owner of Bhoomika Theatre made the theatre’s position clear. “Kamal Haasan’s Thug Life may or may not release elsewhere, but in our theatre, it will not be screened. Kannada organisations approached us seeking support for the language, and so we have decided not to release the film,” he said.
He said that screening a film typically involves acquiring distribution rights from the producer or their designated distributor, but “in this case, we have not contacted them. We will not be screening the film.”
The theatre owner further noted that Kannada groups had explicitly cited Kamal Haasan’s statements as offensive. “They have asked us not to release the film under any circumstances. Disrespecting Kannada is unacceptable. Although Haasan reportedly claimed he did not mean it that way, the damage is done, and we have seen the outrage across media. Therefore, we stand firm in our decision.”
Senior leader and Legislative Council LoP Chalavadi Narayanaswamy also spoke out, emphasising the significance of Kannada identity. “Our identity is rooted in Kannada. The Constitution does not permit anyone to insult another person or language,” he said.
Narayanaswamy urged Kamal Haasan to apologise without delay, warning, “If you truly respect other languages, apologise immediately. Otherwise, the people will not forgive you—they will teach you a lesson.”
He further called on film personalities to recognise their social responsibility. “Your role is to entertain or impart positive values. Creating controversy and misleading the public is not the right path. If your actions anger people, you must consider the consequences.”
As the June 5 release date nears, the controversy continues to evoke strong emotions, highlighting the sensitive nature of linguistic pride in Karnataka and its wider cultural implications.
