Bengaluru — Just days ahead of its much-anticipated release, Kamal Haasan’s upcoming film Thug Life has run into turbulent waters in Karnataka. The state’s film chamber has put a halt on the movie’s release following the veteran actor’s controversial remark suggesting that the Kannada language originated from Tamil — a statement that has sparked significant backlash from pro-Kannada groups and regional leaders.
The Remark That Sparked the Storm
The controversy ignited during the audio launch of Thug Life in Chennai earlier this month. While addressing the crowd, Kamal Haasan — an acclaimed actor and Tamil cultural icon — commented on the linguistic history of South India, claiming that “Kannada has its roots in Tamil.”
The statement, intended to reflect linguistic evolution, was quickly perceived as dismissive and historically inaccurate by many in Karnataka. What followed was a storm of protests, social media outrage, and demands for an unconditional public apology.
Ban Imposed by Karnataka Film Chamber
In a swift response, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) announced an indefinite suspension of the film’s release within the state. The chamber, under pressure from linguistic activists and regional political organizations, declared that Thug Life will not be screened in Karnataka unless Haasan issues an official apology.
BIG BREAKING 🚨 Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce BANS release of Kamal Haasan’s Thug Life.
MASSIVE PROTESTS against Kamal Haasan 😱
He had said “Kannada is born out of Tamil”
He said “I will not apologise if I am not wrong”
Karnataka Rakshana Vedike files Police complaint… pic.twitter.com/0AqoO6xdUl
— Times Algebra (@TimesAlgebraIND) May 30, 2025
Source: Times Algebra
KFCC President N.M. Suresh stated:
“Freedom of speech is a right, but not when it insults the cultural and linguistic identity of our people. We stand by the sentiments of Kannadigas. The release will remain blocked until an apology is made.”
Public Reactions: Heated Protests and Online Campaigns
Following the KFCC’s decision, pro-Kannada groups organized protests in key cities including Bengaluru, Hubballi, and Mysuru. Demonstrators held banners and chanted slogans condemning Haasan’s remarks, with some even calling for a boycott of all his films.
Meanwhile, on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), hashtags such as #BanThugLife, #ApologizeKamalHaasan, and #RespectKannada began trending locally. Netizens flooded Haasan’s social media with messages demanding accountability.
About ‘Thug Life’
Directed by the legendary Mani Ratnam, Thug Life marks a reunion with Kamal Haasan after decades. The film also features an ensemble cast including Silambarasan TR, Jayam Ravi, Trisha, and Abhirami.
Positioned as a high-octane gangster drama, Thug Life is touted as a pan-India release, shot in multiple languages including Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi. The production team had planned a simultaneous release across states and in IMAX format on June 5, 2025.
Overseas rights are being handled by AP International and Home Screen Entertainment, while Shreshth Movies is distributing it in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. However, Karnataka is now off the grid — at least for now.
Read Also:Kamal Haasan’s Language Bomb Sparks Statewide Protests and Political Firestorm
Kamal Haasan Remains Silent
As of this writing, Kamal Haasan has not issued an apology or clarification regarding his remarks. While sources close to the actor say the statement was taken out of context and intended as a historical reference, the absence of direct communication from Haasan has only fueled the backlash.
Political observers note that Haasan, also a leader of the Makkal Needhi Maiam party, may be treading cautiously due to the sensitive political climate ahead of regional elections in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Language Politics in Southern India: A Recurring Flashpoint
The latest incident underscores the persistent language-based sensitivities in southern India, particularly between Tamil and Kannada-speaking populations. Disputes over linguistic pride, border demarcations, and cultural heritage have long fueled regional tensions.
Notably, similar flashpoints have emerged in the past — from the anti-Hindi agitations in Tamil Nadu to border disputes involving Belagavi between Karnataka and Maharashtra.
Dr. Meena Krishnamurthy, a sociolinguist at Bangalore University, commented:
“Language is identity in South India. Even the most benign comment can be interpreted as an attack if it treads on cultural sentiment. Kamal Haasan’s stature magnifies that impact.”
What Happens Next?
With just a week until its release, the team behind Thug Life faces a critical decision. Either the filmmakers push ahead with a release in other markets while skipping Karnataka, or Haasan issues a public statement to calm the situation.
Film trade analysts suggest that a ban in Karnataka — one of the largest markets for South Indian cinema — could impact opening weekend revenues by up to ₹10–15 crore.
However, the controversy could also create “curiosity value,” drawing attention and potentially boosting box office numbers elsewhere.
Industry Reactions: Divided Opinions
Reactions from the film fraternity have been mixed. Some industry veterans have rallied behind Haasan, calling for artistic freedom and a rational discussion around history. Others have urged caution and cultural sensitivity when addressing such charged topics.
Actor Prakash Raj tweeted:
“Let’s remember the power of words. One sentence can divide, another can unite. We owe our audience responsibility.”
Global Eyes on Local Drama
As the controversy continues to unfold, international audiences and Indian diaspora viewers are watching closely. With digital pre-bookings already live overseas, the production team is banking on global interest to cushion any domestic fallout.
Film critics expect Thug Life to perform strongly in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and overseas markets regardless of the issue. However, the silence from Kamal Haasan is likely to keep the situation tense until an official statement or apology is made.
Will Thug Life See Light in Karnataka?
As of now, Thug Life remains in limbo in Karnataka. Unless Kamal Haasan addresses the controversy directly, the ban is expected to stay in place — a situation that serves as a stark reminder of the tightrope Indian celebrities walk when cultural pride and artistic expression collide.
