In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has lifted the ban on Kamal Haasan’s film Thug Life in Karnataka, paving the way for its statewide release. The ban was earlier imposed by several pro-Kannada organizations angered by Kamal Haasan’s controversial remarks about the origin of the Kannada language.
Responding to the verdict, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar addressed the media, urging activists and pro-Kannada groups to “know their limits” and respect the constitutional framework. “Everyone has the right to protest, but only within legal boundaries,” he stated firmly, adding that no one should take the law into their own hands.
The Supreme Court’s directive clarified that once a film is approved by the Censor Board of Film Certification (CBFC), it cannot be arbitrarily stopped by any group. “Mobs cannot decide what should or should not be shown in theaters,” the court emphasized in its ruling.
The controversy surrounding Thug Life began during its promotions, when Kamal Haasan commented that “Kannada originated from Tamil,” sparking backlash and leading to calls for a ban in Karnataka. Despite the nationwide release on June 5, the film had remained off screens in the state until now.
Directed by Mani Ratnam, Thug Life is expected to release across theatres in Karnataka soon, following the Supreme Court’s intervention.
