The Supreme Court has ordered the release of Kamal Haasan’s film Thug Life in Karnataka, ending a weeks-long dispute over the actor’s comments about the Kannada language. The court criticized threats to block the film and upheld creative freedom, calling for the rule of law to prevail.
The controversy began when Kamal Haasan stated that “Kannada was born out of Tamil” during a promotional event in Chennai. His remark angered pro-Kannada groups, leading to protests and demands for an apology. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) initially banned the film’s release in the state.
Kamal Haasan refused to apologize, calling his statement “an expression of love.” He later clarified that politicians, including himself, are not qualified to discuss language origins.
“Love will never apologize,” he said. “My statement was said out of love, and historians have taught me language history. I didn’t mean anything.”
The Supreme Court strongly condemned the threats against the film’s release. It questioned why the Karnataka government failed to act against groups threatening violence.
“If someone has made a statement, you counter it with another statement. You cannot threaten to burn down theatres,” the court said. “People can choose not to watch the film, but threats cannot decide its release.”
The court also criticized the Karnataka High Court for suggesting Kamal Haasan should apologize. It ruled that once the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) clears a film, no state can block its release.
Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, was released nationwide on June 5 but faced delays in Karnataka. The film has underperformed at the box office, leading to renegotiations with OTT platforms like Netflix.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and BJP leaders had condemned Kamal Haasan’s remarks. Pro-Kannada groups warned theaters against screening the film, but the Supreme Court’s order now ensures its release.
Kannada actor Shivarajkumar, who was present at the controversial event, denied supporting Kamal Haasan’s statement.
“I clapped when he called me his nephew, not for his language comment,” he said. “Kannada is my priority. I would give my life for it.”
Despite the backlash, Kamal Haasan expressed confidence in Karnataka’s people.
“When a Karnataka-born chief minister caused problems for me, Kannadigas offered me shelter,” he said. “The people will take care of me and my film.”
The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada group, had warned of protests if the film released without an apology.
“We will not allow Kamal Haasan’s film in Karnataka,” said Praveen Shetty, the group’s leader. “If theaters screen it, the government will be responsible for any consequences.”
The Supreme Court’s decision reinforces the legal right of CBFC-approved films to release nationwide. It also highlights the growing trend of mob pressure influencing entertainment.
Thug Life stars Trisha, Silambarasan TR, and Joju George. The film marks Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam’s reunion after their 1987 classic Nayakan.
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