Thug Life Controversy: HC Reprimands Kamal Haasan Over Kannada Remark; Actor Avoids 'Sorry' In Letter To KFCC

Thug Life Kannada Language Controversy Latest Update: Following Kamal Haasan's remark on the origin of the Kannada language, the 70-year-old has been facing a major backlash in Karnataka. Things escalated so much that the release of Haasan's upcoming film 'Thug Life' got banned in the state. Various pro-Kannada groups, including the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, demanding an apology from the Thug Life actor over his 'Kannada is born out of Tamil' remark. Directed by Mani Ratnam, Thug Life is scheduled to hit cinemas on Thursday (June 5). On the other hand, Haasan had previously refused to issue an apology for his remark.

Thug Life Language Controversy: Karnataka HC Rebukes Kamal Haasan Over His 'Kannada Is Born Out Of Tamil' Remark

Kamal Haasan had moved to the Karnataka High Court after KFCC (Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce) announced a ban on Thug Life release in Karnataka unless the veteran actor publically apologizes for his statement.

According to Telugu 360, the Karnataka HC has rebuked Kamal Haasan for refusing to apologize over the ongoing Karnataka language controversy.

"No citizen has the right to hurt sentiments," the judge said, adding, "No language can be born out of another. Where is the material to support this (claim)? And what has happened? Disharmony. And what have the people of Karnataka asked? (Only) an apology."

Justice Nagaprasanna also slammed Haasan and stated, "The circumstances were created by Kamal Haasan, and he has said he will not apologise? You have undermined the sentiment of the people of Karnataka ... On what basis? Are you a historian? Or a linguist? (sic)"

Thug Life Release Banned In Karnataka: Kamal Haasan Sends Letter To KFCC President

Amidst the huge backlash, Kamal Haasan has sent a letter to the KFCC president while expressing his love and respect for all the languages. However, the actor avoided using 'sorry' or to apologize for his remark in his letter.

"I have always respected all languages and cultures. My comment about Kannada being born out of Tamil was taken out of context, (sic)" the actor-politician wrote.