The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has issued a stern ultimatum to actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan: apologise publicly by May 30 for his controversial claim that "Kannada was born out of Tamil," or his upcoming film Thug Life will be barred from screening in Karnataka.

The decision follows a heated meeting with industry stakeholders, where KFCC president M Narasimhalu announced efforts to engage Haasan in dialogue. "We’re trying to reach him to discuss the issue. His statement was wrong, and Kannada groups are demanding a ban. We’ve decided he must apologise," Narasimhalu told reporters.

Former KFCC president Sa Ra Govindu took a harder stance, warning, "If Kamal Haasan doesn’t issue a public apology by tomorrow, we’ll back Kannada activists in fierce protests. Thug Life will not be released here without an apology."

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The controversy erupted after Haasan’s remark during a promotional event for Thug Life, which offended pro-Kannada groups and cultural organisations. Actor Jayamala, a former KFCC head, stressed unity among Kannadigas in defending their language. "Kannada didn’t originate from Tamil. Whether Haasan spoke knowingly or not, his words hurt us. Apologising for a mistake is the right thing to do," she said.

Jayamala added that the KFCC is attempting to convey the depth of the hurt caused by Haasan’s statement, urging him to take moral responsibility. However, Haasan doubled down on Wednesday, stating his comment was made "out of love" and that "love will never apologise," further fueling the outrage.

As the deadline looms, the fate of Thug Life in Karnataka hangs in the balance, with Kannada pride at the forefront of the escalating dispute.

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