Actor Kamal Haasan’s production house, Raaj Kamal Films International, has approached the Karnataka High Court seeking the smooth screening of Thug Life across Karnataka. The film, scheduled to release on June 5, is facing a boycott as the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) and other Kannada organisations have threatened to ban it in the state.
The plea, filed by the Chief Executive Officer of Raaj Kamal Films International, urged the court to restrain state authorities and film trade bodies from obstructing the film’s release.
The controversy stems from a statement made by Kamal Haasan during the audio launch of the film in Chennai, where he linked the origin of Kannada language to Tamil. In his speech while invoking his love for Tamil, Kamal Haasan while thanking the participation of Kannada actor Shivarajkumar – who attended the event as a special guest – Kamal said that his “life, relationship, and Tamil” comment extended to Shivarajkumar as well. “Your language (Kannada) was also born out of Tamil. So you are also part of it,” Kamal said, pointing to the Kannada actor.
The comment sparked protests from pro-Kannada groups, who accused the actor of disrespecting the Kannada language and demanded a public apology. The KFCC issued a 24-hour ultimatum demanding that Kamal Haasan apologise, threatening a statewide ban on the film if he failed to do so.
The producers have argued in court that the statement was part of a broader tribute to the camaraderie between the Tamil and Kannada film industries. The petition adds that Kannada actor Shivarajkumar, who attended the same event, clarified that Kamal Haasan has always shown respect for Kannada and for Bengaluru. It further states that the backlash is based on a misinterpretation and has led to unwarranted disruption.
The plea also highlights the scale of the production, noting that approximately Rs 300 crore has been invested in the film, which marks a reunion between Kamal Haasan and director Mani Ratnam. The film also stars Trisha Krishnan and Silambarasan, with music composed by A.R. Rahman.
The producers are seeking the court’s intervention to prevent any interference with the film’s screening by the KFCC or other parties. They are also requesting a directive for the police and state government to provide security to the filmmakers, cast, theatre owners, and moviegoers to ensure the film’s uninterrupted exhibition.
The petition notes that global audiences, including fans in Karnataka, are eagerly awaiting the film’s release. It adds that previous requests made to the police and other authorities for protection did not receive a favourable response, compelling the producers to approach the court.
Meanwhile, Kamal Haasan has maintained that his comments were made out of affection and have been taken out of context. Addressing the media in Chennai on May 30, the actor said, “I will apologise if I am wrong. If I am not wrong, I won’t apologise. It’s my lifestyle, please don’t tamper with that.” He reiterated his respect for the people of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala, adding, “I have been threatened before. This is a democratic country, and I believe in law and justice.”
The High Court is yet to hear the matter.