Kamal Haasan Faces Backlash in Karnataka Over Kannada Language Remarks
Introduction
Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan has found himself at the center of a heated controversy in Karnataka following remarks he made about the Kannada language during a promotional event for his upcoming film Thug Life. The statement, made at an audio launch event in Chennai on May 24, 2025, has sparked widespread outrage, political reactions, and demands for an apology from pro-Kannada groups and state leaders. Karnataka’s Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj S Tangadagi, has even threatened a ban on Haasan’s films in the state if he does not apologize. Let’s dive into the details of this linguistic row and its implications.
The Controversial Remark
During the audio launch of Thug Life in Chennai, Kamal Haasan addressed the audience with the Tamil phrase “Uyire Urave Tamizhe” (meaning “My life and my family is Tamil”). Speaking about Kannada actor Shivarajkumar, who was present at the event, Haasan said, “Actor Shivarajkumar is my family living in another state. That’s why I began my speech saying my life and my family is Tamil. Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil. So you are included in that line.”
While Haasan likely intended the comment as a gesture of cultural unity, it was perceived by many in Karnataka as dismissive and factually incorrect, igniting a firestorm of criticism. The claim that “Kannada was born out of Tamil” has been particularly contentious, as Kannada is a distinct Dravidian language with a rich history spanning over 2,500 years.
Backlash in Karnataka
The remarks triggered immediate backlash in Karnataka, with pro-Kannada organizations like the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) leading the charge. Protesters tore down Thug Life banners in Bengaluru and staged demonstrations in cities like Belagavi, Mysuru, Hubballi, and Bengaluru, demanding a public apology from Haasan. KRV leader Praveen Shetty accused Haasan of insulting Kannada and warned of serious consequences, including potential protests and a ban on his films in the state. A formal police complaint was filed against Haasan at Bengaluru’s RM Nagar Police Station, alleging that his statement “hurt the Kannada language and the sentiments of Kannadigas” and sowed discord between Kannadigas and Tamils.
Karnataka’s political spectrum united in condemning Haasan’s remarks. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked, “Kannada has a long-standing history. Poor Kamal Haasan, he is unaware of it,” highlighting the language’s ancient heritage. Karnataka BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra called the comment “uncultured” and “the height of arrogance,” accusing Haasan of disrespecting Kannada while glorifying Tamil. He demanded an “unconditional apology” and criticized Haasan for forgetting the “generosity of Kannadigas,” given his past work in Kannada cinema. Congress MLA Rizwan Arshad labeled the remarks “unwarranted and unnecessary,” urging Haasan to foster unity rather than division.
Karnataka Minister’s Ultimatum
The controversy escalated when Karnataka’s Minister for Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj S Tangadagi, issued a stern warning to Haasan. In a letter to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce, Tangadagi demanded that Haasan apologize for “deeply hurting” Kannadiga sentiments. He stated, “When it comes to our language, land, and water, we will not tolerate anyone speaking against them, no matter how big the person is, even if it is Kamal Haasan.” He further warned that failure to apologize would lead to a recommendation to ban Haasan’s films, including Thug Life, set to release on June 5, 2025. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce responded by issuing a 24-hour deadline for Haasan to apologize, threatening to support the ban if he did not comply.
Kamal Haasan’s Response
Despite the mounting pressure, Kamal Haasan has remained defiant, refusing to apologize. Speaking to reporters in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, he clarified that his remark was made “out of love” and based on his understanding of language history from historians. “What I said was said out of love, and a lot of historians have taught me language history. I didn’t mean anything,” he stated, adding that politicians, including himself, lack the expertise to debate linguistic origins. He urged that such discussions be left to historians and linguists.
Haasan also highlighted Tamil Nadu’s history of inclusivity, noting that the state has had chief ministers from diverse linguistic backgrounds, including J. Jayalalithaa, who hailed from Karnataka. He suggested that the controversy was being misconstrued and emphasized the familial bond between Tamil and Kannada speakers, referencing his connection with Shivarajkumar.
Shivarajkumar’s Defense
Kannada actor Shivarajkumar, who was present during Haasan’s speech, came to his defense at a public event in Bengaluru. Calling himself a “die-hard fan” of Haasan, Shivarajkumar praised his contributions to cinema and his admiration for Bengaluru. He questioned why critics did not raise their concerns directly with Haasan during his visit to Karnataka for Thug Life promotions, suggesting that the controversy had been blown out of proportion by the media. “Love for Kannada shouldn’t just appear when someone speaks up. It should be consistent – from the heart, always,” he said, urging unity over division.
Political and Cultural Context
The row has reignited longstanding linguistic sensitivities in South India, where language is deeply tied to cultural identity. Both Kannada and Tamil are Dravidian languages with ancient roots, and claims of one being derived from the other are contentious and debated among scholars. Haasan’s comment comes at a time of heightened linguistic pride in Karnataka, following recent controversies like an SBI official’s refusal to speak Kannada and a case against singer Sonu Nigam for allegedly insulting the language.
The DMK, Haasan’s political ally in Tamil Nadu, defended him, with spokesperson TKS Elangovan arguing that Haasan was likely citing historical references rather than expressing a personal view. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu BJP leader Tamilisai Soundararajan cautioned against controversial statements, urging constructive dialogue over linguistic pride.
Implications for Thug Life
The controversy poses a potential threat to Thug Life, Haasan’s much-anticipated collaboration with director Mani Ratnam, marking their first joint project in 37 years. The film, featuring a star-studded cast including Silambarasan, Trisha Krishnan, and Pankaj Tripathi, faces boycott calls and protests, which could impact its release in Karnataka, a significant market for Indian cinema.
Conclusion
Kamal Haasan’s remark, intended as a gesture of affection, has instead sparked a major linguistic and cultural row in Karnataka. While Haasan stands firm, refusing to apologize, the demands for accountability from Karnataka’s leaders and activists highlight the deep pride Kannadigas take in their language and heritage. As the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce deliberates on a potential ban, the controversy underscores the delicate balance of linguistic identity in India’s diverse cultural landscape. Whether Haasan’s Thug Life will face a ban or find a way to reconcile with Kannadiga sentiments remains to be seen. For now, the debate continues to stir emotions on both sides.
What are your thoughts on this controversy? Should Kamal Haasan apologize, or is this an overreaction to a statement made in affection? Share your views in the comments below!
This article is based on reports from India Today and other sources. For the latest updates, stay tuned to kishanbaraiya.com.