Several weeks after the Supreme Court ruled that Kamal Haasan had no obligation to apologize for stating that "Kannada originated from Tamil," a court in Bengaluru has now prohibited the actor from commenting further on the matter related to the Kannada language.
An Additional City Civil and Sessions Judge was considering a plea filed by the pro-Kannada group Kannada Sahitya Parishat, which sought a court order preventing Mr. Haasan from making any statements that could harm the reputation of the Kannada language and culture.
In an ex-parte ruling issued on Friday without the involvement of the opposing side, the court prohibited the actor from "publishing, releasing, circulating, expressing, composing, or disseminating any comments asserting dominance over the Kannada language or utterances likely to insult or tarnish the image of Karnataka’s language, literary heritage, region, and cultural identity." The restriction remains effective until the subsequent hearing scheduled for August 30.
The court observed that the Kannada Sahitya Parishat "has been actively involved in promoting the Kannada language, literary works, and cultural heritage throughout Karnataka," and further stated that it "holds authority to undertake initiatives for the welfare of Kannadigas, as well as their literature and traditions."
While promoting his movie 'Thug Life' in May, Kamal Haasan addressed Kannada actor Shivarajkumar, stating, "That location holds special significance for me—it’s where my family resides. That’s the reason he came over today, and also why I started my address with references to life, relationships, and Tamil culture. Since your mother tongue—Kannada—is derived from Tamil, you're very much part of this circle as well."
The comments caused widespread controversy, prompting the Karnataka High Court to caution Mr. Haasan about overstepping his freedom of expression. The court remarked, “Once something is said, it cannot be undone, though an apology may still come. It’s like trying to unscramble an egg—what's done cannot be reversed.”
The actor mentioned that his remarks were misinterpreted and expressed deep respect for the Kannada language, though he did not offer a direct apology.
Several Kannada-supporting organizations at the time cautioned against releasing the movie in Karnataka and issued threats to cinema halls as well.
While hearing a petition last month, the Supreme Court stated that *Thug Life* had received clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification and must be allowed for release in the state. The court further remarked that Mr. Haasan should not have been required to issue an apology.