Karnataka High Court raps Kamal Haasan over controversial language remark

Bengaluru

The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday came down heavily on actor-politician Kamal Haasan for his recent statement claiming that “Kannada was born out of Tamil.” The court made its position clear during the hearing of a petition filed by Haasan seeking protection for the smooth release of his upcoming film Thug Life, scheduled to hit theatres on June 5.

The court expressed strong disapproval of Haasan’s remarks, asserting that such comments from a public figure could fuel unrest and communal disharmony. “You may be Kamal Haasan or anybody else, you cannot hurt the sentiments of the masses,” the bench stated.

The judge questioned the basis of Haasan’s claim and challenged his authority to speak on linguistic history. “Are you a historian or a linguist? On what grounds have you made this statement?” the court asked.

Referencing a similar past incident, the bench cited how scholar Rajgopal Acharya had apologised decades ago for comparable remarks, suggesting that an apology from Haasan would have been more appropriate than legal action for film protection.

Free speech cannot hurt sentiments: HC on Haasan’s justification

Rejecting Haasan’s reliance on freedom of speech, the court observed, “Fundamental rights under Article 19 do not give anyone the liberty to offend the cultural sentiments of others.” The judge also criticised the actor for expecting police protection while refusing to retract his statement. “Language is an emotional matter. You are not an ordinary man—you are a public figure,” the bench said.

The remarks were reportedly made by Haasan during the audio launch of Thug Life in Chennai last month, where he spoke alongside Kannada actor Shiva Rajkumar. His statement quickly sparked protests in Karnataka and calls for a boycott.

Haasan’s legal plea seeks film protection in wake of backlash

Facing threats of disruption, Haasan’s production company Raaj Kamal Films International filed a writ petition requesting the Karnataka High Court to restrain individuals, organisations—including the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC)—and government bodies from interfering with the release of Thug Life. The petition also asked for security arrangements for the film’s cast, crew, and theatre operators.

The production house argued that Haasan’s comments were “misinterpreted” and meant to underline the cultural closeness between the Tamil and Kannada communities. The petition insisted that the backlash was politically motivated and should not affect the release of a creative work.

KFCC maintains hardline stance: “No apology, no release”

Meanwhile, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce reaffirmed its opposition to the film’s screening. KFCC president M Narasimhalu told PTI, “Let Kamal Haasan approach the court—we have done nothing illegal. We will not allow the release of Thug Life in Karnataka unless he tenders an apology.”

There are also indications that the South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce may intervene to resolve the escalating tension between the film fraternity and Kannada groups.

About Thug Life: A ₹300-crore cinematic spectacle

Thug Life is a high-budget action film directed by Mani Ratnam, marking his reunion with Kamal Haasan after the 1987 classic Nayakan. Featuring a stellar cast including Trisha Krishnan and Silambarasan T R, the film also boasts music by A.R. Rahman is expected to be one of the biggest South Indian releases of the year.