Kamal Haasan Dismisses Apology Calls, Kannada Film Body To Ban 'Thug Life' In Protest

Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan today (30 May 2025) firmly refused to apologise for his recent remarks on the Kannada language, stating that he would only do so if he believed he was wrong. 

 “If I’m wrong, I’ll apologise. If I’m not, I won’t. This is my lifestyle, please don’t tamper with it,” Haasan told India Today, responding to widespread demands for a public apology.

The controversy erupted after Haasan, during the audio launch of his upcoming film Thug Life, remarked that “Kannada was born out of Tamil” — a statement that drew sharp backlash from Kannada organisations, political leaders, and the Karnataka film fraternity.

In response, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) on 30 May announced a ban on the release of Thug Life in the state. The chamber had earlier issued an ultimatum to Haasan demanding an apology, which he declined.

Political reactions in Karnataka have also intensified. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah condemned the actor’s remarks, stating that Kannada has a very long and independent history, while Minister for Kannada and Culture Shivaraj Tangadagi sent a letter to the KFCC urging an immediate ban on Haasan’s films unless he issues a public apology.

Meanwhile, several figures from the Tamil film industry, including Divya Spandana and Vinodhini Vaidyanathan, defended Haasan, calling the controversy an unnecessary ruckus and emphasising the shared Dravidian heritage of South Indian languages.

Haasan, who leads the Makkal Needhi Maiam and is aligned with the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam in Tamil Nadu, is set to enter the Rajya Sabha soon.

Also Read : Kamal Haasan's Remarks On Origins Of Kannada Language Spark Massive Row