Kamal Haasan Stands Firm: Refuses Apology in Kannada Language Controversy at Karnataka HC

Entertainment News: Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan faced sharp criticism from the Karnataka High Court for refusing to apologize over his controversial claim that “Kannada was born out of Tamil.”  “If I am wrong, I will apologize.

The Spark of Controversy

The row erupted when Haasan, during a May 24, 2025, promotional event for Thug Life in Chennai, remarked to Kannada actor Shivarajkumar that Kannada originated from Tamil, framing it as a gesture of cultural unity. This triggered outrage in Karnataka, with pro-Kannada groups like Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) demanding a public apology. Protests in Bengaluru saw Thug Life posters torn and Haasan’s effigies burned, with KFCC banning the film’s June 5 release unless he complied. Haasan’s letter to KFCC, expressing affection for Kannada but stopping short of an apology, further fueled the dispute.

Court’s Stern Rebuke

Justice Nagaprasanna highlighted the sensitivity of linguistic identity, noting, “Jala, Nela, Bhashe [water, land, language] are dear to people.” Citing C. Rajagopalachari’s 1950 apology for a similar claim, the court questioned Haasan’s refusal, stating, “One apology would have solved everything.” Haasan’s counsel, Dhyan Chinnappa, argued the statement was misconstrued and made without malice, but the court remained firm, adjourning the hearing to June 10. 

A Broader Debate

The controversy underscores the delicate balance between free speech and regional pride in India’s linguistically diverse landscape. Haasan’s defiance has drawn mixed reactions, with Tamil Nadu supporters like MLA T. Velmurugan criticizing the court’s stance, while Karnataka’s BJP leaders demand accountability. As the Thug Life release hangs in balance, the episode highlights the challenges public figures face in navigating cultural sensitivities, with implications for cinema and regional harmony.