Bengaluru: In a sharp rebuke during Tuesday’s hearing, the Karnataka High Court pulled up actor-politician Kamal Haasan over his controversial remarks about the Kannada language, warning that public figures must exercise caution when commenting on culturally sensitive issues. The court was hearing Haasan’s plea for protection and smooth release of his upcoming film Thug Life in Karnataka.
Referring to Haasan’s previous comment suggesting that “Kannada originated from Tamil,” the court sternly questioned the basis of the statement. “Are you a historian or a linguist? On what basis have you made such a claim?” the bench asked. It reminded Haasan that language is deeply tied to people’s identity and emotions, and public figures carry the responsibility of preserving social harmony.
“The division of this country is on linguistic lines. A public figure cannot make such a statement. The people of Karnataka only asked for an apology. Now you come here seeking protection,” the court said, as quoted by Live Law.
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) had earlier announced its decision to boycott the June 5 release of Thug Life unless Haasan issued a public apology for the remark. Concerned over the film’s potential disruption, Haasan moved the court on Monday requesting urgent security arrangements and protection for the film’s screening in Karnataka.
Appearing on behalf of Haasan, senior advocate Dhyan Chinnappa argued that the release of the film cannot be legally stopped. However, the court challenged this stance by emphasizing public sentiment. “You may be Kamal Haasan or anybody, you cannot hurt the sentiments of the masses,” it said.
In one of the most quoted moments of the hearing, the bench remarked, “You cannot unscramble a scrambled egg,” emphasizing that while spoken words cannot be undone, an apology could offer a path toward resolution. “Mistakes happen; you must know what to do when mistakes happen,” the court added.
The court also questioned Haasan’s intentions, pointing out, “You want to earn from here, and yet you upset the very people you’re addressing. This situation was created by you; it can also be corrected by you.”
