On Tuesday, the Karnataka High Court severely questioned actor Kamal Haasan over his controversial remarks on the etymology of the Kannada language, which has fueled protests against the release of his upcoming movie Thug Life in the state.
The court asked Haasan to explain, posing the question, "Are you a historian or linguist? On what basis did you speak?"
Haasan had gone to court asking for protection to facilitate the smooth release of Thug Life, a film directed by Mani Ratnam, as several pro-Kannada groups asked the actor to apologize. Senior lawyer Dhyan Chinnappa, appearing on Haasan's behalf, contended that the actor's statements had been misinterpreted and filed a written clarification on his client's behalf.
As per Live Law, the Bench had shown its outrage at the refusal of Haasan to offer an apology, saying his remarks had caused "unrest and disharmony" in the area.
The court said, "Division of this country is on linguistic lines. A public person cannot say so. What has happened due to it? Unrest, disharmony. People of Karnataka were asking for only an apology. Now you approach here seeking protection.". On what grounds you have made this statement? Are you a history teacher or linguist? On what grounds you spoke? You are aware of the significance of the film, stating that it is a production of Mani Ratnam, but you cannot make a statement." The court continued, "In case it is a response of apology, we will accept. There is no apology in it.". You may be Kamal Haasan or anybody, you cannot hurt the sentiments of the masses.”
At the hearing, Chinnappa asked the court to take cognizance of the context in which Haasan had made the statement. The court asked him to watch the video footage as well. The Bench responded, "It may not be drastically wrong. Now you want the film to be shown in Karnataka, leave it. Fundamental right of speech and expression cannot be strained to offend the sentiments of the masses."
When Chinnappa argued that there were individuals who wanted to view the film and their rights were being infringed, the court reacted by saying, "Let them come before the court, that I want to watch Thug Life." The case was postponed until 2:30 pm for further hearing.
What ignited the controversy?
Kamal Haasan petitioned the Karnataka High Court on Monday, asking for orders to permit his movie Thug Life to be released and screened unhindered in Karnataka.
The furore started after Haasan's comments at the Thug Life music launch attracted strong criticism in Karnataka. In his address, Haasan began his speech with the words 'Uyire Urave Tamizhe' that roughly translates to 'my family and my life is Tamil language'.
When he was speaking to Kannada actor Shivarajkumar at the same function, Haasan remarked, "This is my family in that place. That's why he has come here. That's why I started my speech with words life, relationship and Tamil. Your language (Kannada) came into being out of Tamil, so you too are included (part of it)."
After protests and demands to stall the release of the movie in Karnataka, where it is being launched on June 5, Haasan went into hiding seeking protection from the law to escape disruptions.
In his petition, submitted by the CEO of Raaj Kamal Films International, Haasan sought the court to order the Karnataka government, police, and film industry associations to ensure the release of the film takes place without hindrance. The petition also sought the Director General of Police and City Police Commissioner to arrange proper security for the screening.
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