Chennai, May 28, 2025: Veteran actor and politician Kamal Haasan has responded to the uproar surrounding his recent statement that “Kannada was born out of Tamil.” The comment, made during the audio launch of his upcoming film Thug Life, sparked widespread criticism from pro-Kannada outfits and political leaders across Karnataka.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Haasan clarified that his remarks were “said out of love” and were influenced by historical studies. “What I said was out of love. A lot of historians have taught me language history. I didn’t mean to hurt anyone,” he said. [Source: ANI]
Backlash from Karnataka Leaders and Language Activists
Haasan’s comment triggered protests across Karnataka, including in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Belagavi, and Hubballi. Activist groups like the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) staged demonstrations and threatened to boycott Haasan’s films in the state unless he issued an unconditional apology.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reacted sharply, stating, “Kannada has a long-standing history. Poor Kamal Haasan, he is unaware of it.” [India Today Report]
Similarly, Congress MLA Rizwan Arshad said, “This debate is unfortunate. Kannada and Tamil are both ancient languages that form the foundation of our country.”
“Politicians Should Not Debate Language” – Kamal Haasan
In a self-reflective note, Haasan acknowledged that the topic of linguistic origins should be left to experts. “Politicians are not qualified to talk about language. That includes me. Let us leave such discussions to historians, archaeologists, and language experts,” he said.
Haasan also emphasized Tamil Nadu’s inclusive history, noting that the state has had chief ministers from various communities—including Malayali Menon, Reddy, and Kannadiga Iyengar backgrounds—highlighting the region’s pluralism.
Call for Cultural Unity
The controversy has reignited discussions on the sensitivity surrounding linguistic identities in India. Political leaders and social commentators are calling for unity and urging public figures to act responsibly when discussing cultural and historical matters.
With elections and political tensions always simmering in South India, language remains a sensitive and emotive issue that can quickly escalate. Kamal Haasan’s clarification may help de-escalate the current situation, but the demand for an apology continues.
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