Karnataka government angry with Kamal Haasan's statement, actor's films may be banned.

Kamal Haasan's controversial statement on Kannada language has created a storm in Karnataka. Karnataka's Kannada and Culture Minister Shivaraj Tangadgi has threatened to ban Kamal Haasan's films as he refused to apologize for his statement. The controversy started during the audio launch event of his upcoming film Thug Life, where he said that the "Kannada language is born from Tamil."

What is the whole controversy?

Kamal Haasan said at an event of Thug Life in Chennai, "My life and family is Tamil. Your (Kannada) language is born from Tamil, so you are also included in it." This statement angered many people in Karnataka. Organizations like Kannada Rakshak Veda called it an insult to Kannada language and culture. Protests were held against him in Belgaum, Mysore, Hubli and Bengaluru, where his posters were even burnt.

Minister and Film Chamber's stance

Minister Shivaraj Tangadgi said, "No matter how big one is, speaking against the Kannada language, Kannadigas or the land and water of Karnataka will not be tolerated." He had written a letter to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) demanding a ban on Kamal Haasan's films.

KFCC had given a deadline of May 30 to apologize, but Kamal Haasan refused to apologize. KFCC President M. Narasimhalu said, "We have told the theater owners and distributors that the film Thug Life will not be released until an apology is received."

Kamal Haasan's response

Kamal Haasan said, "I said this with love. If I am wrong, I will apologize, otherwise not." Citing Tamil Nadu's inclusive culture, he said that people from different communities have become Chief Ministers there.

The release of Thug Life in Karnataka, which is scheduled to release on June 5, is in danger. Kannada organizations have also filed a complaint with the Bengaluru police, but no FIR has been lodged yet.