KFCC Joins Pro-Kannada Groups, Imposes Statewide Ban on Thug Life
Updated on: 02 June, 2025 04:12 PM IST |Sudheesh SK
kamala hassan thug life
Pro-Kannada Group Moves to Halt Kamal Haasan’s Thug Life Release in Bengaluru Over Language Remarks
The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada organization, has issued a warning to theatre owners in Bengaluru, urging them to avoid screening Kamal Haasan’s film Thug Life.
The controversy arose after the actor reportedly stated at a promotional event in Chennai that “Kannada originated from Tamil,” sparking outrage among Kannada language supporters.
On Sunday, members of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike approached Victory Cinema Theatre in Kamakshipalya, Bengaluru, pressing the theatre management to halt the film’s release. Praveen Shetty, representing the group, accused Kamal Haasan of insulting the Kannada language and warned that screening the movie could provoke disturbances. He also held the state government accountable for any resulting issues.
The matter intensified as the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) announced a statewide ban on the film’s release in Karnataka. Supporting the pro-Kannada groups, the KFCC stated the movie should not be released until Kamal Haasan publicly apologizes for his remarks. Sa Ra Govindu, speaking for KFCC, confirmed their stand alongside Karnataka Rakshana Vedike due to the absence of any apology from the actor.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also criticized Kamal Haasan’s comment, emphasizing the rich and ancient heritage of the Kannada language and suggesting the actor was unaware of it.
In response to the criticism, Kamal Haasan, speaking outside the DMK party office in Chennai, defended his position, expressing his love and respect for Karnataka and neighboring states. He acknowledged democratic freedom of expression and said he would apologize if proven wrong, but would stand firm if not.
Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, stars Kamal Haasan alongside Trisha Krishnan and Silambarasan TR in prominent roles.
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