The Karnataka High Court has strongly criticized actor Kamal Haasan regarding his controversial remarks about the Kannada language, made in late May 2025. The controversy arose after Haasan stated that "Kannada was born out of Tamil" during a promotional event in Chennai for his upcoming film, "Thug Life." These remarks triggered immediate backlash from pro-Kannada organizations and sparked a political row in Karnataka.

In response to the controversy and facing potential disruptions to the film's release in Karnataka, Kamal Haasan's production house, Raaj Kamal Films International, filed a petition with the Karnataka High Court. The petition sought to prevent any obstruction to the screening of "Thug Life" in Karnataka, naming the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) and state officials as potential disruptors. It also requested police protection for the film's cast, crew, theatre owners, and audiences, citing potential threats.

The KFCC has taken a firm stance, announcing a boycott of "Thug Life" in Karnataka unless Haasan issues a public apology for his remarks. KFCC President M. Narasimhalu reiterated this position, stating, "Let Kamal Haasan go to court... But we will not allow the screening of 'Thug Life' in Karnataka unless he apologizes."

During the High Court hearing, Justice M. Nagaprasanna questioned Haasan's refusal to apologize, emphasizing that his statement had hurt the sentiments of the people of Karnataka. The court pointed out the significance of language to the people, stating, "Water, land, and language are dear to people." The Court further questioned the basis of Haasan's claim, asking if he was speaking as a historian or linguist. The court also drew a parallel to a past incident where C. Rajagopalachari apologized for a similar statement in 1950.

The Court questioned why Haasan couldn't offer a similar apology or at least a clarification, suggesting he could state that he made the statement without looking into the history. They emphasized that freedom of expression does not extend to hurting the sentiments of the masses and that an apology could resolve the issue.

Senior Advocate Dhyan Chinnappa, representing Haasan, argued that neither the KFCC nor the state government could ban a film that has been cleared by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). He added that there was no intention to deride the Kannada language. However, the court remained firm, stating that Haasan's remarks had created the situation and that seeking police protection for a situation he created was problematic. The court suggested that one apology would have solved everything.

"Thug Life" is a highly anticipated film directed by Mani Ratnam, marking his second collaboration with Kamal Haasan after the 1987 film "Nayakan." The film features a star-studded cast, including Trisha Krishnan and Silambarasan T. R., with music by A. R. Rahman and has an estimated budget of ₹300 crore. The film is scheduled to release on June 5, 2025.