Karnataka HC asks Kamal Haasan to consider apology over Kannada remarks

Facing backlash over the recent comment on the origin of the Kannada language, actor Kamal Haasan was advised by the Karnataka High Court on June 3 to consider expressing regret if his statement had offended public sentiment in the state.

The suggestion came while the court was hearing a petition filed by his production company, Raajkamal Film Ventures, seeking police protection for the release of “Thug Life” in Karnataka, scheduled for June 5.

Haasan’s remark, made during the audio launch of “Thug Life,” stirred criticism from Kannada activists and drew strong objections from Karnataka’s Kannada and Culture Minister, Shivaraj Tangadagi, who demanded an apology.

As the hearing opened, the production house’s counsel requested time to consult Haasan regarding the court’s observation, prompting the bench to postpone the matter until the afternoon session.

Justice M Nagaprasanna questioned the reasoning behind Haasan’s refusal to apologize. Representing the petitioner, Senior Advocate Dhyan Chinappa argued that the movie’s release could not be halted.

“Quite clearly, the release of the movie cannot be stopped… Neither KFCC nor the Karnataka Government can stop it,” he said.

He added that the actor had welcomed Kannada actor Shiv Rajkumar during the event and that the statement in question was misinterpreted.

The court, however, pointed out that Haasan’s follow-up remarks lacked an actual apology. Justice Nagaprasanna stressed that public figures must avoid statements that may hurt mass sentiments, particularly on sensitive issues like land, water, and language.

He also drew parallels to a historical instance when C Rajagopalachari, after making a similar statement in 1950, apologized upon being corrected by Kannada scholars.

“It may not be drastically wrong. But what is it that is making you stick to your guns, saying that I will not utter a word of apology? All that is required to be said is that I have hurt the sentiments. All’s well that ends well,” Justice Nagaprasanna said.

He added, “If you are not so bothered, why do you want the film to run in Karnataka—leave it.”

The judge also warned against misusing freedom of expression to provoke unrest and said discretion from public personalities is crucial.

“We will not let the sentiments of anyone be taken for a ride like this by a public figure in a public forum,” he added.

Haasan’s counsel insisted that the actor’s words were taken out of context and not intended to offend.

“It was not a seminar on Kannada or Tamil language. It was taken out of context. Our intention is to defuse the situation,” the lawyer said.

However, the court pressed further, saying, “You are letting it go beyond control, and it is your film.”

The production house, in its petition, said that Haasan’s remarks were aimed at promoting cultural unity and were being selectively quoted.

The petition emphasized that “Thug Life” had secured certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), and any attempt to block its release would infringe upon constitutional rights, including the right to conduct business under Article 19.

It also warned that preventing the release could result in major financial losses and sought police protection for the cast, crew, and audiences.

Additionally, it urged the court to restrain the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce from interfering with the film’s release.

Following protests in cities including Bengaluru, Mysuru, Belagavi, and Hubballi, Haasan issued a clarification from Chennai.

“I think what I said was said with a lot of love. Historians have taught me the language’s history… I didn’t mean anything,” he said.

Meanwhile, Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi sent a letter to the KFCC, demanding a ban on Haasan’s films unless he apologized.

“Despite the actor’s stature, the people of Karnataka cannot tolerate his remarks on their land, water, and language,” he said.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also weighed in, noting Kannada’s rich linguistic history and saying, “Poor Kamal Haasan, he is simply unaware of it.”

BJP state president B Y Vijayendra accused Haasan of “disrespecting Kannada to glorify his own mother tongue” and called for an unconditional apology, stating that artists must respect all languages.