Actor Kamal Haasan has ignited controversy just weeks before the release of his film Thug Life, by stating that “Kannada was born out of Tamil” during the film’s launch event in Chennai.

The comment, made in the presence of Kannada actor Shivarajkumar, quickly drew backlash across Karnataka, with BJP state chief Vijayendra Yediyurappa demanding an unconditional apology. He accused Haasan of “insulting 6.5 crore Kannadigas” to glorify Tamil and further alleged that the actor has a history of hurting Hindu sentiments.

Karnataka Rakshana Vedike president Praveen Shetty warned Haasan against disrespecting Kannada if he wants his films to succeed in the state.

Haasan also advocated for learning regional languages before Hindi, adding fuel to the ongoing language debate. The film Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, is set for release on June 5 and marks the duo's reunion after 38 years.