The Karnataka High Court has come down heavily on renowned actor and filmmaker Kamal Haasan over his controversial comment implying that the Kannada language originated from Tamil. The remark has sparked outrage across Karnataka, with many viewing it as a disrespectful dismissal of the state’s linguistic heritage. During Tuesday’s hearing, Justice M. Nagaprasanna underscored the emotional and cultural significance of language and questioned why Haasan had not issued a public apology that could have calmed the growing unrest. “Language is not merely a tool for communication but a symbol of identity and pride,” the judge noted, adding that the actor’s refusal to acknowledge the impact of his statement reflects a disregard for Karnataka’s linguistic sentiments.

Justice Nagaprasanna further challenged Kamal Haasan’s authority to make such sweeping historical claims, asking, “Are you a historian or a linguist to make such a statement?” The court made it clear that no language is born out of another and that such remarks only fuel unnecessary divisions in a culturally diverse nation like India. By choosing not to retract his words, the court implied, Haasan has deepened the hurt caused to the Kannada-speaking population. The judge stressed that an apology — simple yet sincere — would have been enough to defuse the tension and uphold the values of mutual respect between linguistic communities.

This judicial intervention comes amidst growing calls from political leaders and social organizations in Karnataka demanding accountability from public figures who make controversial cultural statements. The court’s strong observations are expected to put pressure on Kamal Haasan to issue a clarification or apology to avoid further legal and social backlash. The incident also reignites broader conversations about the responsibilities of celebrities in maintaining communal harmony, especially in a country where language and identity are deeply intertwined.