Actor Kamal Haasan says ‘Kannada was born out of Tamil’; faces backlash
In a recent controversy, actor-politician Kamal Haasan has sparked a row by stating that the Kannada language was born out of Tamil during the audio launch of his latest film ‘Thug Life’. The statement has been met with severe backlash from Pro-Kannada organisations, including the Kannada Rakshana Vedike, who have condemned the remarks and demanded an apology from the actor.
The controversy began when Kamal Haasan made the comment during the audio launch of ‘Thug Life’, a film that marks his return to Tamil cinema after a five-year hiatus. The actor, who is known for his versatility and range in films, has been a prominent figure in the Indian film industry for decades. He has also been involved in politics, contesting elections and holding public office in Tamil Nadu.
Kamal Haasan’s statement about Kannada being born out of Tamil was met with widespread criticism from Kannada-speaking regions, particularly in Karnataka. Pro-Kannada organisations, including the Kannada Rakshana Vedike, have accused the actor of disrespecting the Kannada language and its rich cultural heritage.
“You need business in Karnataka? And yet insulting Kannada,” the Kannada Rakshana Vedike said in a statement, urging the actor to retract his statement and apologize to the Kannada-speaking public.
The organisation also went a step further by tearing down banners of ‘Thug Life’ in Bengaluru, the capital city of Karnataka. The move was seen as a strong protest against the actor’s comments, and a warning to others who might attempt to disrespect the Kannada language.
Kamal Haasan’s statement has also been criticized by several politicians and film personalities from Karnataka. “Kannada is a language with a rich history and culture, and it cannot be reduced to a derivative of another language,” said Karnataka’s Education Minister, S Suresh Kumar.
The controversy has also led to a social media backlash, with many Kannada-speaking people expressing their outrage and disappointment at Kamal Haasan’s comments. The hashtag #KannadaPride has been trending on social media, with many people demanding an apology from the actor.
Kamal Haasan’s comments have also been seen as a reflection of the historical ties between the Tamil and Kannada languages. Both languages are part of the Dravidian language family and share many similarities in grammar and vocabulary. However, the two languages have distinct cultural and historical contexts, and any attempt to diminish or disrespect one language can be seen as an affront to the other.
In response to the backlash, Kamal Haasan’s team has issued a statement saying that the actor meant no disrespect to the Kannada language or its speakers. “Kamal Haasan is a renowned actor who has respect for all languages and cultures. His statement was misunderstood and taken out of context,” the statement said.
However, the damage has already been done, and the controversy has sparked a heated debate about language, culture, and identity in India. The row has also raised questions about the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect when it comes to language and cultural heritage.
In conclusion, Kamal Haasan’s statement about Kannada being born out of Tamil has sparked a major controversy, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect when it comes to language and cultural heritage. While the actor has apologized for any hurt caused, the damage has already been done, and the controversy is likely to have long-term repercussions for his career and reputation.
