Actor Kamal Haasan has filed a petition with the Karnataka High Court requesting orders to facilitate the release and release of his forthcoming film Thug Life in the state. The action follows significant criticism regarding his recent statements about the roots of the Kannada language.
‘Kannada derived from Tamil’ remark
The actor faced backlash in Karnataka for claiming that Kannada derived from Tamil, a statement that provoked significant opposition in the region. At the audio launch of Thug Life in Chennai on May 24, Haasan remarked that “Tamil is the origin of Kannada.”
Amid calls to stop the release of Thug Life, slated for June 5 in the state, Kamal Haasan has sought legal action to ensure no disruption occurs.
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In his petition, submitted via the Chief Executive Officer of his production company Raaj Kamal Films International, Kamal Haasan has requested the court to instruct the Karnataka state government, the police department, and film industry associations to not hinder the film’s release. The request additionally calls for directives to the Director General of Police and the City Police Commissioner to provide sufficient security measures for the screening.
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), responding to requests from pro-Kannada activists, prohibited the film’s release in Karnataka. The KFCC declared its decision on May 30 after giving Kamal Haasan a 24-hour ultimatum to make a public apology.
Hassan refuses to apologize
Hassan had previously justified his stance amidst increasing criticism amid claims of supporting democracy and legal principles.
Calling India a ‘democratic nation,’ the actor mentioned that if he is ‘not mistaken,’ he would ‘not apologize’ to anyone for his actions. Pro-Kannada organizations have urged him to make a public apology for purportedly disrespecting Kannada sentiments.
“It’s a democracy,” Haasan told media outside the DMK party office in Chennai on Friday, adding, “I advocate for justice and the rule of law. I truly love Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. The only ones who will challenge it are those with a motive. Previously, I was threatened as well; if I’m wrong, I’ll apologize; if I’m right, I won’t.”
