Tamil superstar Kamal Haasan is busy promoting his upcoming film 'Thug Life' these days, but due to a statement he has been surrounded by controversies. Recently, in the promotional event of the film, he said that "Kannada language originated from Tamil." After this comment, protests have started against him in Karnataka.

Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce has expressed displeasure over this and said that until Kamal Haasan does not apologize publicly, his film 'Thug Life' will not be released in Karnataka. The organization's president M. Narasimhalu clearly said, "This is not just a matter of the film industry, it is a question of the identity of our state. If he does not apologize, the film will not run here."

Meanwhile, Kamal Haasan's production house 'Raj Kamal Films' has filed a petition in the Karnataka High Court. The petition states that Kamal Haasan's remarks were intended to show cultural unity and respect between the people of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, but were misunderstood. The petitioner has demanded from the court that any person, organization or authority be prevented from obstructing the release of the film, and at the same time the safety of the producer, artists, theaters and audience should be ensured.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also reacted to the controversy and said that "Kannada has a rich historical background, and Kamal Haasan is not aware of it." At the same time, BJP's Karnataka President B.Y. Vijayendra has also demanded an apology from Haasan. Many Kannada language lover organizations and social activists have also criticized the actor's statement and demanded an apology.

Kamal Haasan has reacted to the entire controversy by saying, “This is a democracy. I believe in law and justice. If I am wrong, I will apologize, but if I am right, I will not back down. I have received threats before. My true love for Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Kerala is something that no one can deny except those who have an agenda.” At present, the release of ‘Thug Life’ in Karnataka is in limbo, as distributors and theater owners are not ready to release the film without resolving the controversy.