Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan’s upcoming film Thug Life is facing a complete boycott in Karnataka after his controversial remarks on the Kannada language stirred widespread anger across the state. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has officially banned the release of the film, siding with pro-Kannada organisations who are demanding a public apology from Haasan.

The controversy erupted after Kamal Haasan, while speaking at a promotional event in Chennai last week, allegedly stated that “Kannada is born out of Tamil.” The statement triggered a sharp backlash from Kannada activists and political outfits, who condemned it as an insult to Kannada heritage and linguistic identity.

KFCC representative Sa Ra Govindu, speaking at a media interaction in Bengaluru on Friday, confirmed the boycott, saying:

“We will surely not release the film. We (KFCC) will stand with Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and other Kannada organisations. There is no ‘Sorry’ term being specified anywhere by Kamal Haasan.”

Govindu further emphasized that the Chamber had no choice but to support local sentiments:

“When there is pressure, we have to act. Karnataka Rakshana Vedike was also present. Whatever they demand, we support. Kamal Haasan has not apologised for hurting the sentiments of the Kannada people.”

KFCC President M Narasimhalu also commented on the issue, stating that the chamber is attempting to reach out to Kamal Haasan directly.

“If he wants the movie to be released in Karnataka, Kamal Haasan should apologise publicly,” he said.