Tue May 27 17:15:06 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Kamal Haasan’s recent remark claiming that Kannada originated from Tamil at an event in Chennai has sparked controversy and outrage in Karnataka. The comment, made in the presence of Kannada actor Shivarajkumar, was met with strong criticism, including accusations of being “uncultured” and disrespectful. Karnataka BJP chief Vijayendra Yediyurappa condemned the statement and called for an apology, accusing Haasan of arrogance and ingratitude. Pro-Kannada groups have also protested, threatening to ban Haasan’s upcoming film, “Thug Life.”

**News Article:**

**Kamal Haasan’s Language Remark Sparks Outrage in Karnataka, Film Ban Threatened**

**Bengaluru, India** – A statement by Tamil megastar Kamal Haasan claiming Kannada originated from Tamil has ignited a firestorm of controversy in Karnataka, with political leaders and pro-Kannada groups condemning the remark as disrespectful and arrogant.

The incident occurred at an event in Chennai where Haasan, in the presence of Kannada actor Shivarajkumar, said, “Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil.”

Karnataka BJP chief Vijayendra Yediyurappa swiftly denounced Haasan’s comment, labeling it “uncultured behavior” and accusing the actor of insulting the Kannada language. “It is the height of arrogance and arrogance that an actor who has acted in many Indian languages, including Kannada, has insulted Kannada,” Yediyurappa tweeted. He further accused Haasan of forgetting the “generosity of Kannada and Kannada people” and demanded an unconditional apology.

The backlash extends beyond political circles. Pro-Kannada organizations have taken to the streets in protest, tearing down posters of Haasan’s upcoming film, “Thug Life,” and threatening to ban the film’s release in Karnataka. “We are warning you that if you talk against Kannada and Kannadigas we have to ban your movie,” warned Praveen Shetty, leader of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike.

The controversy casts a shadow over the release of “Thug Life,” scheduled for June 5th. The film marks Haasan’s reunion with director Mani Ratnam after nearly four decades, their last collaboration being the critically acclaimed “Nayakan.”

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