‘Thug Life won’t release in Karnataka without Kamal Haasan’s apology’: KFCC president

BENGALURU: Actor Kamal Haasan’s upcoming film, ‘Thug Life’, is facing trouble in Karnataka after his recent remark on Kannada language sparked anger among local groups. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has banned the film’s release until the actor issues a public apology.

Chamber president M Narasimhalu said that people in Karnataka are upset with Kamal Haasan for his comment that “Kannada is born out of Tamil,” which he reportedly made during a promotional event in Chennai. Narasimhalu added that if the actor does not apologise before the movie’s slated release, it will not be allowed to screen in Karnataka.

#WATCH | Bengaluru: On MNM President & actor Kamal Haasan’s remark about the Kannada language, Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) president M Narasimhalu says, “People of Karnataka are angry with Kamal Haasan. We have also sent a message to the South Film Chamber. The… pic.twitter.com/jdPIqfk53Z

— ANI (@ANI) May 31, 2025

“People of Karnataka are angry with Kamal Haasan. We have also sent a message to the South Film Chamber. The distributors have decided that if he does not apologise before the release of his film on May 5, it will not be allowed to release here…” he said.

The controversy has led to several protests in Karnataka by the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and other Kannada organisations. In response to the growing backlash, Hassan stood by his statement, saying he believes in law and democracy.

Terming India a “democratic country,” the actor stated that he wouldn’t “apologise” to anyone for his actions if he is “not wrong.” Pro-Kannada organisations have demanded a public apology from him for allegedly hurting the sentiments of Kannada people.

#WATCH | Chennai: “It is a democracy. I believe in the law and justice. My love for Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala is true. Nobody will suspect it except for those who have an agenda. I’ve been threatened earlier too, and if I am wrong, I would apologise, if I’m not, I… pic.twitter.com/ZtNMhPYETq

— ANI (@ANI) May 30, 2025

Speaking to media personnel outside the DMK party headquarters in Chennai on Friday, Haasan said, “It is a democracy. I believe in law and justice. My love for Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala is genuine. Nobody will doubt it except for those who have an agenda. I’ve been threatened earlier too, and if I am wrong, I would apologise; if I’m not, I won’t”.

‘Thug Life’ is directed by Mani Ratnam and stars Kamal Haasan, Trisha Krishnan, and Silambarasan T R in the lead roles. (ANI)