Tensions have flared in Karnataka as several pro-Kannada groups issued warnings to theatre owners in Bengaluru, demanding a ban on the screening of Kamal Haasan’s upcoming film Thug Life. The controversy erupted following the veteran actor’s recent remark suggesting that “Kannada is born out of Tamil,” which has sparked outrage across the state.
Members of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV), one of the most vocal pro-Kannada organizations, staged protests in front of Bengaluru’s Victory Cinema and other key venues. They warned theatre owners of “serious consequences” if they proceeded to show the film. Demonstrators also burned effigies of Kamal Haasan in various parts of Karnataka as a symbol of protest.
In a show of solidarity with the protestors, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has declared that Thug Life will not be released in Karnataka unless Kamal Haasan issues a formal apology for his statement.
“No screening of Thug Life will be allowed in the state until the actor publicly apologizes for hurting Kannada sentiments,” a KFCC official said.
As a result of the growing unrest, advance booking for the film, which is scheduled for a pan-India release, has not opened in Karnataka. Several cinema chains are reportedly reconsidering their plans to screen the film to avoid potential law-and-order issues.
Despite mounting pressure, Kamal Haasan has yet to comment or offer an apology regarding the controversy. With the release date approaching, the film’s fate in Karnataka remains uncertain, amid heightened regional tensions over linguistic pride and identity.
