A Bengaluru civil court has issued an interim order prohibiting Tamil actor Kamal Haasan from making or publishing any statements that suggest linguistic superiority over the Kannada language or that might offend the sentiments of Kannadigas. This ruling came on Friday, following a petition filed by the Kannada Sahitya Parishat and its President, Nadoja Dr. Mahesh Joshi.
Interim Injunction Imposed Against Kamal Haasan
The City Civil and Sessions Court, under Judge Madhu N R, issued the directive barring Kamal Haasan and his associates from making remarks that demean Kannada language, literature, culture, or the people of Karnataka. This restriction remains in place until the court resumes hearings on the matter. The order also enjoins restraint toward statements that could defame or hurt the pride of Kannadigas.
Background of the Dispute Over Kamal Haasan’s Statement
The legal action stemmed from a remark Kamal Haasan allegedly made at a promotional event for his film Thug Life, during which he stated,
“Kannada was born out of Tamil”
while speaking alongside Kannada actor Shiva Rajkumar. The petitioners argued this comment tarnished the dignity of Kannada and deeply offended Kannada-speaking communities.
Moreover, the complaint raised concerns about the timing of this statement, noting it surfaced just days before Kamal Haasan filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha under the DMK party banner. This sequence of events was seen by the petitioners as politically charged and insulting.
Ongoing Tensions Despite Supreme Court Resolution on Film Release
Although the Supreme Court of India had resolved earlier disputes related to the screening and release of Thug Life, the controversy surrounding Kamal Haasan’s comment on the Kannada language kept sentiments agitated among Kannadigas. The Kannada Sahitya Parishat was also instructed by the court to issue a public notice as part of proper legal protocol since the suit represents the wider Kannada-speaking community.
Impact on Film Release and Community Response
The release of Thug Life in multiple languages took place in June; however, the Kannada dubbed version faced a boycott due to the backlash against Kamal Haasan’s alleged remarks. The controversy has sparked widespread dissatisfaction among Kannada speakers and threatens to affect further cultural and political relations in the region.
Next Steps and Legal Proceedings
The case remains active, with further court hearings planned but not yet publicized. Meanwhile, the interim order stands as a strong signal against perceived disrespect toward the Kannada language and its people, emphasizing the sensitivity surrounding linguistic pride in Karnataka.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is the debt of Kamal Haasan?
A. Kamal Haasan’s ₹49 crore debt has come to light as he is set to join the Rajya Sabha. The famous actor and founder of the MNM party is running in the Rajya Sabha elections, showing he owes ₹49 crore. He possesses office buildings in Chennai and farmland in Dindigul.
