Actor and politician Kamal Haasan has ignited a significant controversy with his recent statement suggesting that the Kannada language originated from Tamil. The remark was made during the audio launch of his upcoming film Thug Life in Chennai, where Kannada actor Shivarajkumar was also present. Haasan began his speech with the Tamil phrase “Uyire Urave Tamizhe” (“My life and my soul is Tamil”) and addressed Shivarajkumar by saying, “Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil, so you too are included in that” .
This statement has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters in Karnataka. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah condemned the comment, asserting that Haasan lacks understanding of Kannada’s rich and independent history . BJP Karnataka President BY Vijayendra labeled the remark as “uncultured” and demanded a public apology . Pro-Kannada organizations, including the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, have expressed outrage, with some members vandalizing promotional posters of Thug Life and calling for a boycott of the film in Karnataka .
Linguistic experts have clarified that while both Kannada and Tamil are part of the Dravidian language family, they evolved independently from a common Proto-Dravidian ancestor, and one is not derived from the other .
The controversy comes at a sensitive time, as there is speculation about Haasan’s potential nomination to the Rajya Sabha through an alliance between his party, Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), and Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK party . The incident underscores the deep-rooted linguistic pride and sensitivities in South India, highlighting the importance of cultural respect and understanding.
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