Kamal Haasan Gets 24-Hour Deadline to Apologise or Face Ban on Thug Life Release in Karnataka

Kamal Haasan has been given a strict 24-hour deadline by the Karnataka Film Chamber to apologize for his controversial remarks about the Kannada language, failing which the release of his film Thug Life will be banned in Karnataka. The deadline expires by noon on June 3, following which the chamber has warned that the film will not be allowed to screen anywhere in the state.

The controversy erupted after Kamal Haasan stated at a Chennai promotional event that "Kannada was born from Tamil," a comment that sparked widespread outrage among Kannada-speaking communities. Despite initial calls for an apology, Kamal Haasan has refused to retract his statement, intensifying the backlash.

The Karnataka Film Chamber convened a meeting on June 2, where distributors and stakeholders unanimously agreed that an apology is mandatory for the film's release. Venkatesh, the Karnataka distributor of Thug Life, requested additional time for Kamal Haasan to reconsider, leading to the 24-hour extension.

Karnataka Film Chamber President M Narasimhalu said, "We feel there is little chance of Kamal Haasan apologizing, but we are giving him until Tuesday 12 noon. Kamal Haasan is currently in Dubai and will arrive in Chennai tomorrow morning."

If Kamal Haasan does not apologise by the deadline, the chamber has made it clear that Thug Life will face a complete ban in Karnataka, with theatre owners refusing to screen the film. The situation remains tense as the deadline approaches, with fans and industry insiders closely watching Kamal Haasan's next move.