The Tamil Film Active Producers Association (TFAPA) has formally appealed to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) to withdraw its ban on the release of Thug Life in Karnataka. In a letter addressed to the KFCC, the association requested cooperation to facilitate the film’s scheduled release on June 5.
Highlighting decades of collaboration between the Tamil and Kannada film industries, TFAPA stated, “Actors such as Shivarajkumar, Upendra, Sudeep, and Duniya Vijay have made significant contributions to Tamil cinema, while Tamil producers and directors have also been involved in Kannada film projects. The decision to ban Thug Life could adversely affect the longstanding relationship between both industries.”
Responding to the controversy surrounding Kamal Haasan’s recent comment — that the Kannada language originated from Tamil — TFAPA clarified that the actor’s statement at the audio launch of Thug Life was made in a spirit of affection, not to undermine any language. “Every language has its own unique history and significance. Kamal Haasan has always respected Kannada cinema and contributed through films such as Kokila and Pushpaka Vimana,” the association noted.
The letter further pointed out that Kamal Haasan had already issued a clarification to the KFCC, explaining the context of his remarks. “We urge the chamber to take this into consideration and support the film’s release. A ban or even a postponement could damage future ties between the Tamil and Kannada film industries,” TFAPA cautioned.
The KFCC had earlier announced a ban on Thug Life following public outcry over Haasan’s remarks. The chamber also approached the Karnataka High Court, which on Tuesday criticised the actor’s statement and adjourned the matter to June 10 for further hearing.
