Ram Gopal Varma backs Kamal Haasan: Calls ‘Thug Life’ ban threats a new form of hooliganism; deletes post immediately

Kamal Haasan’s upcoming film 'Thug Life' has run into rough waters in Karnataka following a statement the veteran actor made about the Kannada language. During a recent promotional event, Haasan remarked that “Kannada was born out of Tamil,” triggering outrage across Karnataka. In response, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) warned that the film might not see a release in the state unless the actor issues an apology. With mounting political and linguistic tensions, the situation escalated into a legal and cultural flashpoint.


Ram Gopal Varma slams threats as 'hooliganism'

Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma stepped into the debate, taking to social media to call out the threats made against 'Thug Life.' On X (formerly Twitter), he slammed the backlash as a threat to democratic values. “Democracy’s new name is intolerance... threats to ban 'Thug Life' unless Kamal Haasan apologizes amounts to a new kind of hooliganism,” he wrote. Although the post was quickly deleted, it drew attention for its bold stance against what he termed rising censorship through intimidation.

Karnataka leaders and language groups demand an apology

The controversy stems from Kamal Haasan’s attempt to trace the historical and cultural links among South Indian languages. His assertion about Kannada’s roots being in Tamil was met with strong resistance. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah publicly dismissed Haasan’s claim, asserting the independent heritage of the Kannada language. BJP state leaders and pro-Kannada groups demanded that the actor withdraw his statement and issue a formal apology. However, Kamal Haasan stood firm, reiterating his belief in democracy and stating that he would only apologize if he was proven wrong.

Kamal Haasan moves High Court to protect film release

As calls for a film ban grew louder, Kamal Haasan filed a plea in the Karnataka High Court requesting protection for the theatrical release of 'Thug Life’ in the state. Meanwhile, KFCC president M. Narasimhalu claimed the issue had moved beyond cinema: “This is not just about the industry anymore; this is about the pride of our state.”


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