What Happened After Kamal Haasan's Portrait Was Set Ablaze in Bengaluru?
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Synopsis
The recent turmoil surrounding Kamal Haasan escalates as an FIR is filed in Bengaluru due to a portrait being burned amid the ongoing Kannada debate. Haasan stands firm against calls for an apology, asserting his love for Karnataka and its culture. This controversy raises questions about freedom of speech and regional sentiments.
Key Takeaways
- An FIR was filed in Bengaluru after a portrait of Kamal Haasan was set on fire.
- Haasan's comments about Kannada sparked significant backlash from pro-Kannada groups.
- He has firmly refused to apologize, citing his love for the region.
- The controversy highlights the tensions surrounding regional identities in India.
- 'Thug Life' is expected to release on June 5 amidst this ongoing turmoil.
Mumbai, May 30 (NationPress) The controversy surrounding Kamal Haasan continues to intensify. An FIR has been lodged in Bengaluru after a group of individuals allegedly set ablaze a portrait of the esteemed actor.
A suo motu FIR under sections BNS US 270 and 283 has been initiated by the Basaveshwara Nagar Police following the incident. This FIR has reportedly been filed against members of the Karunada Yuva Sena.
One of the suspects, identified as Ravi Kumar, has been apprehended for further interrogation. This distressing event unfolded on the evening of May 29.
In a recent development, Haasan has declined to issue an apology after the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) threatened to boycott his upcoming film “Thug Life”, expressing their outrage over his comments on the Kannada language.
Speaking to the media outside the DMK party headquarters in Chennai, Haasan remarked, “This is a democracy. I have faith in law and justice. My affection for Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala is genuine. Only those with an agenda will doubt it. I have faced threats before, and if I am wrong, I will apologize; if not, I will stand firm.”
The uproar began after Haasan asserted that “Kannada was born out of Tamil” during a promotional event for “Thug Life”.
This statement incited significant backlash among pro-Kannada groups, with KRV activists even vandalizing the film's posters in Bengaluru.
Further, the KRV president, Praveen Shetty, lodged a complaint at Bengaluru’s RM Nagar Police Station, calling Haasan’s statement “unlawful”.
Haasan clarified earlier that his comments regarding the Kannada language were made from a place of love, asserting that he would not apologize for remarks made out of affection.
“Thug Life” is anticipated to hit theaters on June 5.
Point of View
The incident surrounding Kamal Haasan underscores the complexities of regional identities in India. While his comments have sparked outrage, they also highlight the delicate balance between freedom of expression and respecting local sentiments. It is crucial for both sides to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to violence or intimidation.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was an FIR filed against Kamal Haasan?
An FIR was filed after a group set fire to Kamal Haasan's portrait in Bengaluru, leading to accusations against the Karunada Yuva Sena.
What did Kamal Haasan say about the Kannada language?
Kamal Haasan stated that 'Kannada was born out of Tamil', which sparked significant outrage among pro-Kannada groups.
What is the status of Kamal Haasan's film 'Thug Life'?
'Thug Life' is set to be released on June 5, despite the ongoing controversy surrounding the actor.
Has Kamal Haasan apologized for his remarks?
No, Kamal Haasan has refused to apologize, stating that his comments were made from a place of love.
What actions have been taken by pro-Kannada groups in response to Haasan's comments?
Pro-Kannada groups have expressed their outrage by vandalizing film posters and filing complaints against Kamal Haasan.
