Tamil superstar and politician Kamal Haasan found himself in legal waters this week as the Karnataka High Court lashed out at his refusal to release his upcoming film Thug Life in the state. The court called his stance “undemocratic” and said it would not allow “selective justice in matters of public exhibition.”
The controversy began when Kannada activists raised objections over portions of the film they claimed portrayed the Kannada-speaking population in a negative light. Haasan, however, stood his ground and announced that he would not premiere or screen the film in Karnataka “until freedom of art is respected.”
During Tuesday’s hearing, the court observed that “freedom of speech must go both ways” and called for an amicable solution that does not deny access to millions of moviegoers.
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Legal experts believe Haasan’s firm stand could set off a larger debate about freedom of expression in cinema versus regional sensitivities.
Haasan addressed reporters outside the courtroom:
“Art cannot bow to intimidation. If this film isn’t welcome in Karnataka, so be it. I will not edit truth for comfort.”
Thug Life, which stars Haasan in a gritty political drama, is slated for release in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and international markets next week. Whether it will see the light of day in Karnataka remains uncertain.
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