Kamal Haasan thanks ‘entire Tamil Nadu for standing behind’ him amid Kannada row

Incidentally, Haasan had used the “Uyire, Urave, Tamizhe” slogan during the promotional event of his latest film during which he made the controversial remark about Kannada. The 70-year-old actor had said Kannada was born out of Tamil, triggering protests by pro-Kannada organisations. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) warned that the film would not be released in the state unless Haasan issued a formal apology.

The actor lauded Mani Ratnam, saying the ace director had transformed into a “cinema gyani” and that he was excited to work with the latter.

After the high court reprimand, his production house, Raaj Kamal Films International, said he would hold a dialogue with the KFCC and later announced that the film would not be released in the state.

Raajkamal Film Ventures had filed a plea in the high court for police protection for the release of the film. Justice M Nagaprasanna suggested that Haasan should express regret if the sentiments of people in Karnataka had been hurt by his recent remarks on the origin of the Kannada language.

In a letter to the KFCC earlier, Haasan had expressed his “pain” that his statement at the film’s audio launch was misunderstood and taken out of context. He said the statement was made out of affection for the family of Dr Rajkumar, including Shiva Rajkumar, as he wanted to convey that they were from the same family.

Haasan also expressed his admiration for the Kannada literary and cultural traditions, the warmth extended to him by Kannadigas, and his love for Kannada. He said his bond with all the languages of the land was heartfelt and that he was opposed to the dominance of any one language as it would undermine the linguistic fabric of India. He added that as a speaker of the “language of cinema”, his statement was only intended to establish a bond and unity.

Haasan also said he hoped his words would be received in the intended spirit and reiterated his affection for Karnataka and Kannada. He concluded his letter by stating his belief that the misunderstanding was temporary and another opportunity to “reiterate our mutual love and respect”.

Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadagi wrote to the KFCC on May 29, urging that all films featuring Haasan be banned in Karnataka if he failed to apologise. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also weighed in, asserting that Kannada has a long and well-documented history.

(With PTI inputs)