(Image source from: Instagram.com/ikamalhaasan)
The Karnataka High Court has cautioned actor and politician Kamal Haasan from Tamil Nadu about the potential misuse of his freedom of speech that could offend the sentiments of others. The court urged him to retract his assertion that the Kannada language "was born out of Tamil," which has ignited significant controversy. During a session on Tuesday morning, the court delivered pointed comments, incorporating a culinary metaphor: "The spoken word cannot be retracted, but it can be followed by an apology. You cannot unscramble an egg," as it encouraged the actor to express regret for his statement. The judges highlighted, "You are not just any individual," addressing the 70-year-old star, who is anticipated to assume a position as a Rajya Sabha MP this month with backing from Tamil Nadu's ruling party, the DMK. "You possess the right to free speech, but not at the expense of others' feelings. This foundational right of expression cannot extend to a point where it offends the majority. We leave this matter in your hands... if you have caused any hurt, please apologize," the court remarked, also referencing the possible financial repercussions related to Kamal Haasan's upcoming film, 'Thug Life,' scheduled for release on Thursday.
"You made a statement in this context. Just withdraw it... that's all that's needed. Significant earnings can be made in Karnataka... however, if you disregard the sentiments of the Kannada people, then forgo the profits," the court stated. "But we will not allow anyone to disregard public feelings... when one errs, one should say, 'I spoke in that context, but if it has caused any hurt, I apologize,'" the judges added. The court was reviewing a petition that sought orders for authorities, including the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), not to impede or prevent the film's release in the state. The KFCC had indicated on Monday that 'Thug Life' would be barred from screening in Karnataka if Kamal Haasan did not apologize. KFCC President M Narasimhulu remarked, "Kamal Haasan is adamant that 'I haven't done anything wrong, so I will not apologize.' But if that holds, the film’s release is out of the question."
On Friday, Kamal Haasan stood by his words, stating that he would have issued an apology if he believed his comments were inappropriate. "This is a democracy, and I have faith in law and justice," he asserted. The uproar regarding his "born out of Tamil" comment emerged earlier in the week during an event in Chennai preceding the release of 'Thug Life.' He opened his address with the phrase 'uyire urave Tamizhe,' which translates to 'my life and my family is (the) Tamil language.' He then directed his attention to Kannada actor Shiva Rajkumar, who was also present, and remarked, "This is my family in that region. That's why he has come... that's why I emphasized 'life, relationship, and Tamil.' Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil, thus you are also included..."
This statement received immediate backlash, especially from the BJP, which is the main opposition party in Karnataka.
