2 days ago
Last Updated:May 28, 2025, 18:24 IST
Haasan remarks sparked backlash from pro-Kannada groups in Karnataka, who claimed that the actor had insulted the Kannada language and culture
Actor and politician Kamal Haasan. (PTI file photo)
Actor and politician Kamal Haasan on Wednesday responded to the controversy surrounding his recent comments about the origins of the Kannada language, saying his words were misinterpreted and spoken “out of love".
Speaking to News18, Haasan clarified that he never intended to offend anyone and stood by his words.
“My statement was misinterpreted," Haasan said. “What I said was said out of love, with a lot of historians teaching me language history."
“I will not apologise for something I said out of love," Haasan said, refusing to apologise. “Politicians are not qualified on talking about language issues, and that includes me."
He further added that Tamil Nadu has a long history of inclusivity. “It is a very rare state where a Menon has been Chief Minister, a Reddy has been CM, and even a Kannadiga has served as CM."
Haasan also recalled the support he received from Karnataka during a difficult time in Chennai. “Karnataka stood by me when I faced problems in Chennai," he said.
The row began during the audio launch of his upcoming film ‘Thug Life’ in Chennai, where Haasan said, “Uyire Urave Tamizhe" (My life and my family is the Tamil language). Referring to Kannada actor Shivarajakumar, he added, “Your language was born out of Tamil, and hence you are part of it."
His remarks sparked backlash from pro-Kannada groups in Karnataka, who claimed that the actor had insulted the Kannada language and culture. Some even issued threats against him.
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Location : First Published:News politics 'Said It Out Of Love': Kamal Haasan Reacts To His 'Tamil-Kannada' Remark, Says Won't Apologise
