The Karnataka High Court hit back at Kamal Haasan over his petition for the smooth release of Thug Life in the state amid calls for ban over his controversial language remark
Kamal Haasan
Amid a raging language controversy in Karnataka caused by Kamal Haasan's comment, the film body has initiated plans of a ban on Thug Life's release in the state. Now, actor Kamal Haasan who plays the lead in the Mani Ratnam directorial, has approached the Karnataka High Court seeking directions for the release and screening of his upcoming movie in the state amidst calls for a ban from Kannada organisations. Haasan had said that Kannada language was born out of Tamil. The comment did not sit well with many in the state who demanded an apology from the actor.
Kamal Haasan heads to court
In a petition filed through the Chief Executive Officer of Raj Kamal Films International, Kamal Haasan's production company has appealed to the court to issue directives to the Karnataka government, the Police Department, and film bodies, urging them not to obstruct the release and screening of his movie.
The petition also sought directions for the Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG and IGP) and the Bengaluru Police Commissioner to arrange security measures for the film's screening.
Karnataka HC verdict
Responding to Haasan's petition, the court came down heavily on the actor for refusing to apologise. "What is this attitude that Kamal won’t apologise after making a mistake? Why do you want to film in Karnataka if you won’t apologise? Freedom of expression cannot be stretched to hurt sentiments", the court said.
The bench, headed by Justice M. Nagaprasanna, made these observations while hearing a petition submitted by Kamal Haasan seeking security for the screening of his movie 'Thug Life' in Karnataka's theatres and multiplexes.
The court asked Kamal Haasan's counsel to clarify the actor's stand regarding tendering an apology and adjourned the matter until 2.30 p.m.
The bench noted that a prominent person like C. Rajagopalachari had issued a similar statement in 1950 about the origins of the Kannada language and later apologised following protests, even though there was no commercial motive. "If such a big person can apologise, and a similar statement has been issued after 75 years, and there is a commercial motive..." the court observed.
"You want to make a profit from the people of Karnataka, and you also maintain that you won't apologise. Even I want to watch the movie, and because of the controversy, I am unable to watch it. If you do not want to apologise, leave it. Why do you want to release it here?" the court questioned.
"The cinema is made to make profits, and why should the police give protection for your mistake? The people are demanding an apology from you. You have not denied making the statement; you have agreed to have made the statement and are maintaining that you won't apologise," the court stated.
"One statement can resolve the issue, and you are not tendering an apology. If you are not apologising, why are you releasing it in Karnataka?" the court pulled up the actor.
Kannada film body seeks CM's help
On the other hand, the Karnataka Film Chambers of Commerce who have been opposing the release of Thug Life until Kamal Haasan apologises sought Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's help. Reportedly, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah informed the delegation that his government would act legally in this regard and assured them of legal cooperation, emphasising the importance of unity in matters of language.
The film body office bearers sought the state government's support, as they lack the power to impose a ban on the film. They have also appealed to exhibitors to voluntarily refrain from screening the movie.
Following the Chief Minister's meeting with the film body office bearers, the distributors of 'Thug Life' are in a dilemma and have requested an additional day from the Kannada Film Chambers of Commerce to make a decision.
Film body to decide on film's screening even after Haasan apologies
Haasan had earlier refused to back out from his statement or even apologise for the same. He said that the statement came from a place of love and that even language experts would agree with him. Because of this, the film body has stated that even if the superstar apologises, they will hold a meeting to decide whether to allow the screening of the film.
(with inputs from IANS)
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