Kannada ‘born out of Tamil’: Kamal Haasan’s comment triggers linguistic row in Karnataka
Kamal Haasan, the veteran actor and politician, has stirred controversy with a comment he made in Chennai. During the audio launch of his film Thug Life, he stated that “Kannada was born out of Tamil.” This remark quickly drew strong reactions from Karnataka, where many viewed it as a slight against the Kannada language and its heritage.
What Kamal Haasan Said
At the event, Haasan addressed Kannada actor Shivarajkumar. He said, “Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil. So you are included in that line.” He likely intended to highlight the shared cultural roots of Tamil and Kannada. However, his words upset many who saw them as undermining the unique identity of Kannada.
Reactions in Karnataka
Political leaders and pro-Kannada activists strongly opposed Haasan’s statement. BJP leader B.Y. Vijayendra accused him of insulting Kannada to glorify Tamil. Kannada groups, including the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV), issued warnings. They said they would oppose the release of Thug Life in Karnataka unless Haasan apologized.
Social media also erupted with criticism. Many Kannada users condemned the comment and demanded an apology. Several hashtags trended in protest. Scholars and linguists joined the debate. They emphasized Kannada’s long and independent history.
Understanding Language Origins
Both Tamil and Kannada belong to the Dravidian language family. These languages trace back to a shared Proto-Dravidian origin. Over time, each evolved into its own form. Tamil is older, with literature dating back over 2,000 years. Kannada has a rich history too, with inscriptions from the 5th century CE.
Experts point out that saying one language was born from the other is incorrect. Instead, both developed separately from a common source. Each language has its own script, grammar, and literary tradition. Haasan may have been referencing the shared roots. Still, his words lacked nuance and caused offense.
Language and Identity
Language in South India is deeply tied to identity. In Karnataka, people take great pride in Kannada. The state has seen many efforts to protect and promote its use. Any statement seen as disrespectful to Kannada quickly sparks strong reactions.
Haasan’s comment came at a time when language-based sentiments are high. People in Karnataka felt he diminished the status of Kannada. Many saw it as a promotion of Tamil superiority, which further angered them.
Will Haasan Apologize?
So far, Kamal Haasan hasn’t issued a public clarification or apology. Kannada groups continue to demand one. They’ve warned of boycotts and protests if he doesn’t respond.
Distributors in Karnataka are cautious. Some are reconsidering whether to release Thug Life in the state. The film could face backlash if the issue isn’t resolved soon.
Lessons From the Controversy
This incident shows how sensitive language issues are in India. Even a single remark can spark a regional uproar. Public figures need to be more careful when talking about culture and identity.
The debate also revived interest in the history of Dravidian languages. Many young people are now asking questions about the roots of Kannada and Tamil. This could be an opportunity for educational dialogue—if handled respectfully.
Conclusion
Kamal Haasan’s remark about Kannada being “born out of Tamil” has triggered a linguistic firestorm in Karnataka. What he meant as a gesture of unity was seen as dismissive and inaccurate. Kannada speakers, proud of their language’s rich legacy, have strongly pushed back.
As the controversy continues, Haasan faces growing pressure to explain or withdraw his comment. The situation serves as a reminder: in a country as diverse as India, respect for each language and its speakers is essential.
