Will Kamal Haasan's 'Thug Life' Get Released After Controversy?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Kamal Haasan seeks court intervention for the release of 'Thug Life'.
- Controversial statements have sparked demands for a ban from Kannada organizations.
- Government officials are involved in discussions regarding the film's fate.
- Distributors are in a difficult position regarding screening decisions.
- The situation highlights the complexities of language and culture in India.
Bengaluru, June 2 (NationPress) Actor Kamal Haasan has approached the Karnataka High Court on Monday, requesting orders for the release and screening of his forthcoming film, 'Thug Life', in the state amid demands for a ban from Kannada organizations. These calls were triggered by Haasan's contentious remark that Tamil is the mother language of Kannada.
In a petition submitted through the Chief Executive Officer of Raj Kamal Films International, Haasan's production company is urging the court to direct the Karnataka government, the Police Department, and film bodies not to hinder the release and exhibition of his film.
The petition further requests that the Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG and IGP) and the Bengaluru Police Commissioner implement security measures for the film's screening.
Meanwhile, officials from the Karnataka Film Chambers of Commerce met with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday, insisting that the release of Kamal Haasan’s ‘Thug Life’ should be prohibited in Karnataka.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah conveyed to the delegation that his government would respond legally and promised them legal assistance, highlighting the significance of unity concerning language matters.
The film body representatives requested support from the state government, as they do not possess the authority to impose a ban on the film. They also urged exhibitors to voluntarily avoid screening the movie.
After the Chief Minister's discussion with the film body representatives, distributors of 'Thug Life' are left in a quandary and have asked for an additional day from the Karnataka Film Chambers of Commerce to make a decision.
Sources suggest that Kamal Haasan will return to Chennai from abroad on Tuesday. Distributors are anticipated to confer with the actor and reach a final decision regarding the film's screening.
The situation has turned intricate as Kamal Haasan has declined to offer an apology. The film body in Karnataka has expressed that even if Haasan were to apologize, they would convene a meeting to determine whether to permit the film's screening.