Bengaluru, June 3 (UNI) With the release date of actor Kamal Haasan's much-awaited film Thug Life fast approaching on June 5, the controversy surrounding his remarks that "Kannada is born out of Tamil" remains unresolved, as the actor has yet to issue a public apology.
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has maintained a strict statewide ban on the screening of the film, backed by numerous theatre owners. Pro-Kannada organisations, including Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, have intensified protests and warned theatres against releasing the film, condemning Haasan’s comments as a direct insult to Kannada language and culture.
KFCC president M Narasimhalu reiterated that no theatre in Karnataka will screen Thug Life unless Kamal Haasan apologises publicly. The controversy, which has stirred deep emotions tied to linguistic pride and identity, has even reached the Karnataka High Court, where Haasan has filed a petition seeking protection for the film’s release and security for theatres and viewers.