Kamal Haasan Apologises For ‘Kannada Born Out Of Tamil’ Remark | Actor-politician Kamal Haasan has issued a public clarification after a recent remark he made about the origins of the Kannada language sparked widespread outrage across Karnataka. The comment, in which he said “Kannada was born out of Tamil,” drew sharp criticism from both the BJP and Congress, and provoked demonstrations by pro-Kannada organisations.
Responding to the backlash, Haasan clarified on Tuesday evening, “What I said was out of love and based on what I’ve learned from historians. I didn’t mean to offend anyone. Tamil Nadu is a state where a Menon has been our Chief Minister, a Reddy has been our Chief Minister, a Tamil has been our CM, and even a Kannadiga Iyengar has been our Chief Minister. That reflects our inclusivity.”
He further acknowledged the sensitivities around language identity, stating, “Politicians are not qualified to talk about language — including me.”
Protests Intensify Across Karnataka Over Language Controversy
Haasan’s remark ignited a political and cultural storm in Karnataka, with pro-Kannada groups burning his posters and demanding an apology. Several organisations, including the influential Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, staged demonstrations in major cities such as Bengaluru, Mysuru, Belagavi, and Hubballi.
The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike also filed a police complaint in Bengaluru, accusing the actor of insulting the state’s linguistic heritage. Activists emphasized that Kannada has a documented history stretching back thousands of years and accused Haasan of undermining the state’s identity.
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Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah responded firmly, stating, “Kannada has a very long and rich history. Kamal Haasan clearly doesn’t know that.” His comments were echoed by Karnataka BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra, who accused the actor of “disrespecting Kannada to glorify his own mother tongue.”
Vijayendra further demanded that Haasan issue an unconditional apology to Kannadigas, warning that such statements could fan unnecessary linguistic tensions.
Film Release Under Threat Amid Outrage
The controversy comes at a sensitive time for Kamal Haasan, whose much-awaited film “Thug Life,” directed by Mani Ratnam, is scheduled for release soon. With several film associations in Karnataka reportedly discussing a potential ban on the movie, the row threatens to spill into the entertainment industry.
Haasan’s clarification may help ease tensions, but for now, the political firestorm around his statement underscores the deeply rooted emotions surrounding language and identity in South India.
