NuzTube INDIA
Bengaluru — Amid a swirling controversy involving veteran actor Kamal Haasan, the co-producers of the upcoming Tamil-language film Thug Life have moved the High Court of Karnataka, seeking legal protection for the movie’s release across the state. The film is scheduled for a worldwide release on June 5, but is facing resistance in Karnataka following recent remarks made by Haasan at the film’s audio launch.
The petition was filed by Raajkamal Films International, a Chennai-based production house, through its CEO V. Narayanan. The company is seeking urgent judicial intervention to prevent the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) and state authorities from blocking or restricting the distribution and screening of Thug Life in any language across Karnataka.
Controversy Over Language Remarks
The trigger for the unrest stems from a statement allegedly made by Kamal Haasan during the film’s audio launch in Chennai, where he said that “Kannada was born out of Tamil.” This remark sparked widespread backlash among pro-Kannada groups and sections of the KFCC, who termed the comment offensive and demanded a public apology from Haasan. In response, some members of the KFCC threatened to ban the film’s screening in Karnataka unless the actor retracted his statement.
The petition, however, argues that Haasan’s comment was misquoted and misinterpreted. It clarifies that the statement was meant to showcase the bond and historical connections between Tamil and Kannada cultures, rather than insult the Kannada language. The actor has since issued a clarification, saying his statement was made “only out of love and affection” and as a symbol of the shared camaraderie between Tamilians and Kannadigas.
Support From Within Karnataka
Adding to the petition’s argument, the producers cite the support Haasan received from Kannada superstar Shivarajkumar, who was present at the event and defended Haasan publicly. Shivarajkumar clarified that Kamal Haasan has always spoken highly of Kannada language and culture, and urged the public not to misread his intentions.
The producers maintain that no official communication or legal notice has been received regarding any formal ban from the KFCC, and that all threats to the movie’s screening have so far only emerged through media statements and public declarations.
Legal Arguments Presented in the Petition
In its plea, Raajkamal Films International points out that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has already cleared Thug Life for public screening across India. Therefore, no state body, including the KFCC, has the legal authority to restrict or ban the exhibition of the film based on political or cultural disagreements.
The petition argues that such actions violate the fundamental rights of the producers, including their right to freedom of expression and trade, and sets a dangerous precedent for artistic and creative freedom.
Seeking Security and Non-Intervention
The producers have also urged the Karnataka High Court to instruct state authorities to provide adequate security and support for the smooth screening of the film across the state, particularly in light of potential protests or disruptions. Additionally, the petition requests the court to restrain KFCC officials from making further public statements that could influence public sentiment or incite unrest.
A Clash of Culture, Politics, and Cinema
This episode is the latest in a series of language-related tensions that have often complicated film releases in India’s multilingual landscape. While the controversy reflects the sensitive nature of linguistic pride, industry experts and free speech advocates argue that cinema should remain a neutral artistic space, not mired in political agendas.
As the court prepares to hear the matter, the film industry and moviegoers alike await the verdict, which could set a legal precedent on how regional organizations influence or obstruct the release of national films.
For now, Thug Life remains on course for its scheduled June 5 release, unless the High Court rules otherwise or if the KFCC enforces its verbal threats with tangible actions.
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