Kamal Hassan Thanks Tamil Nadu For ‘Understanding’ And Standing By Him Amid ‘Karnataka’ Remark Controversy

Kamal Haasan’s statement follows his first public appearance after the Karnataka High Court criticised him over his remarks claiming that “Kannada was born out of Tamil.” Despite being reprimanded on Tuesday and refusing to apologise, Haasan on Wednesday expressed gratitude to the “entire state of Tamil Nadu for standing behind” him.

Kamal Haasan Expresses Gratitude To Tamil Nadu Amid ‘Karnataka’ Remark Controversy

During his remarks, he praised the crew of his film Thug Life for their dedication and shared his deep love for the Tamil language, referencing the slogan “Uyire, Urave, Tamizhe” (Tamil is my life and family). This was his first public appearance after the high court’s comments, and notably, he had used this very slogan during a promotional event for his latest film when he made the controversial statement about Kannada. The 70-year-old actor had claimed that “Kannada was born out of Tamil,” which sparked protests from pro-Kannada groups.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kamal Haasan (@ikamalhaasan)

The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) issued a warning that the film would not be released in the state unless Haasan issued a formal apology. Haasan praised filmmaker Mani Ratnam, calling him a “cinema gyani,” and expressed his excitement about working with him. Following the high court’s criticism, his production company, Raaj Kamal Films International, announced plans for Haasan to engage in a dialogue with the KFCC. Subsequently, it was declared that the film would not be released in Karnataka.

Kamal Haasan Sends Apology For His Remarks

Raajkamal Film Ventures had also filed a plea in the high court seeking police protection for the film’s release. Justice M Nagaprasanna suggested that Haasan should consider expressing regret if his remarks hurt the sentiments of the people of Karnataka. Earlier, Haasan had sent a letter to the KFCC explaining that his statement at the film’s audio launch was misunderstood and taken out of context.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Raaj Kamal Films International (@rkfioffl)

Haasan also conveyed his admiration for Kannada literature and culture, as well as the warmth shown to him by Kannadigas. He reaffirmed his love for all Indian languages and emphasised that he opposed linguistic dominance. As a speaker of the “language of cinema,” he said his statement was meant to foster unity and bonds among cultures. Haasan expressed hope that his words would be understood in the spirit in which they were offered and reiterated his affection for Karnataka and the Kannada language. He concluded by stating that he believed the misunderstanding was temporary. He expressed looking forward to opportunities to reaffirm mutual love and respect.

In response, Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi wrote to the KFCC on May 29, warning that all films featuring Haasan should be banned in Karnataka if he did not apologise. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also weighed in, emphasising that Kannada has a long and well-documented history.

Also Read: RCB Victory Parade Stampede: Virat Kohli-Anushka Sharma, Kamal Haasan And Others Express Grief About Tragic Incident In Bengaluru

Akankshya Mukherjee

Akankshya Mukherjee is a dynamic and ambitious individual poised to make waves in the realm of Media and Communication. With a passion for creativity and a drive to contribute to forward-thinking organizations, Akankshya embodies adaptability and a hunger for learning. Having already garnered experience through involvement in various organizations, she has honed the skill of quickly adapting to new environments and challenges. She sees each opportunity as a chance for personal and professional growth, eagerly embracing roles in communications and content writing.