Kamal Haasan Faces Karnataka High Court Reprimand for Not Apologising Over Controversial Remarks

The Karnataka High Court criticised actor-politician Kamal Haasan for not apologising for his comment that "Kannada was born out of Tamil." This remark has led to protests and a boycott call by the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) against his film, Thug Life. The film's producers informed the court that its release in Karnataka, initially set for 5 June, would be postponed to 10 June.

Justice Nagaprasanna highlighted that a simple apology from Haasan could have diffused the situation. He remarked, "Freedom of expression cannot be extended to the extent of hurting someone's sentiment, of a mass in particular." The judge noted that Haasan's statement had caused unrest in Karnataka and undermined the linguistic pride of its people.

Language and Cultural Identity

The court emphasised that language is deeply tied to cultural identity. Justice Nagaprasanna questioned Haasan's authority to make such statements, asking, "Are you Kamal Hassan a historian or a linguist to make such a statement? No language is born out of another." He stressed that no one has the right to diminish the pride of an entire linguistic community.

Justice Nagaprasanna referenced C Rajagopalachari, who made a similar statement about language but apologised for it. He said, "If Rajagopalachari could tender a public apology 75 years ago, why can't you Kamal Haasan?" The judge pointed out that Haasan sought police protection for his film's release due to a situation he created.

Commercial Interests and Apology

The petition mentioned that Rs 300 crore was invested in Thug Life. It is the first collaboration between Kamal Haasan and Mani Ratnam since Nayagan. Justice Nagaprasanna remarked on the importance of the film to Haasan but questioned his reluctance to apologise. He said, "You want your film to run smoothly in a state whose sentiments you have hurt."

The judge also noted that water, land, and language are crucial to citizens. He observed that India's division was based on linguistic lines. Justice Nagaprasanna suggested that Haasan should consider leaving the film unreleased in Karnataka if he is not concerned about the state's sentiments.

The court's observations underline the significance of respecting cultural identities and sentiments. It also highlights the potential impact of public statements by influential figures like Kamal Haasan on regional communities.

With inputs from PTI