Kamal Haasan, a renowned South Indian actor, has been at the center of a heated controversy surrounding his comments on the Kannada language. The row began when Haasan allegedly stated that Kannada originated from Tamil, sparking widespread outrage in Karnataka.
The Karnataka High Court subsequently lashed out at the actor, prompting him to issue a clarification to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce. Haasan claimed that his statement was misconstrued and taken out of context, emphasizing that he never intended to disparage the Kannada language. He emphasized the rich heritage of Kannada and professed his deep respect for the people of Karnataka.
However, BJP leader and former Chief Minister B.S. Yediyurappa has now advised Haasan to offer a sincere apology to the Kannada-speaking community. Yediyurappa tweeted that seeking forgiveness does not diminish one’s stature, and that Kannada is not just a language but a sacred pledge to the goddess Bhuvaneshwari. He also mentioned that several linguists have proven that Kannada did not originate from any specific language, contradicting Haasan’s initial claim.
The controversy has put Haasan’s upcoming film, “Thug Life,” in jeopardy, with the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce warning that the film’s release may be banned if the actor does not issue a public apology. The film is scheduled to release on June 5, and this row has thrown a spanner in its promotional plans. The actor has, for now, refused to apologize, reiterating his commitment to love and justice. The producers of “Thug Life” have moved the Karnataka High Court to ensure that the film is not banned in the state. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether Haasan will offer an apology or if the controversy will escalate further.