The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday pulled up actor Kamal Haasan over his controversial remarks regarding the origin of the Kannada language, questioning why state authorities should be obliged to provide security due to his own comments. &ldquo;Don&rsquo;t use the Right to Speech to hurt sentiments,&rdquo; the bench remarked.
The observations came during a hearing on Kamal Haasan&rsquo;s petition seeking security for the screening of his upcoming film Thug Life in theatres and multiplexes across Karnataka.
Haasan recently claimed that the Kannada language is derived from Tamil, a statement that triggered widespread protests across the state. Despite the backlash, he has so far refused to issue an apology.
The bench, led by Justice M. Nagaprasanna, asked Haasan&rsquo;s counsel to clarify whether the actor would consider apologising. The court adjourned the hearing until 2:30 p.m.
Citing historical context, the bench referred to a similar statement made in 1950 by prominent leader C. Rajagopalachari, who later apologised after protests&mdash;even though he had no commercial motive. "If such a big person could apologise, and a similar comment is made again after 75 years with a commercial motive, the situation is serious," the bench observed.
&ldquo;You want to profit from the people of Karnataka, yet refuse to apologise. Even I wanted to watch the film, but due to this controversy, I cannot. If you're not willing to apologise, why release the film here?&rdquo; the court asked pointedly.
The judge further questioned, &ldquo;Why should police provide protection for your mistake? People are demanding an apology. You've admitted making the statement and yet refuse to express regret. One statement could resolve this, but you are unwilling to apologise. Then why should Karnataka host your film&rsquo;s release?&rdquo;
Kamal Haasan&rsquo;s legal team responded that the actor did not intend to insult Kannada and made the statement out of love.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce and Industries has convened a meeting to consider banning the release of Thug Life in the state.
Reacting to the controversy, BJP State President B.Y. Vijayendra said, &ldquo;The state government has taken no stand. Kamal Haasan is a respected actor, and his love for Tamil is understandable, but he cannot disrespect Kannada. It's not too late&mdash;he should apologise and correct his mistake.&rdquo;

Court questions film release in Karnataka amid row over Kannada-Tamil language comment

Karnataka HC Rebukes Kamal Haasan Over Remarks

Court questions film release in Karnataka amid row over Kannada-Tamil language comment

June 3, 2025 | 14:17 IST