KRV president Narayana Gowda warns Kamal Haasan not to enter Karnataka amid language row

A controversy erupted between Tamil actor-politician Kamal Haasan and pro-Kannada groups, following remarks allegedly made by Haasan during a recent film event. Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) State President Narayana Gowda has issued a stern warning, declaring that Haasan is no longer welcome in Karnataka and that his films will not be allowed to release in the state.

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Gowda accused Haasan of arrogance and disrespect towards the Kannada language, saying, “The arrogance of Kamal Haasan must end. We have decided that he should not come to Karnataka anymore.” He further claimed that the High Court had sent a clear message to Haasan, who had approached it seeking security for his film's screening. “Those who went to the High Court were given a proper Kannada lesson,” Gowda added.

In response, Haasan penned a letter to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce expressing regret over the misunderstanding. “I have immense respect for Kannada and its speakers. My comments were misinterpreted. My intention was only to express admiration for Dr. Rajkumar’s family and Kannada culture,” he wrote.

Haasan emphasized that cinema should act as a cultural bridge and not a source of division. “Misunderstandings are temporary, love is eternal. I believe Kannadigas will understand me,” he said.

The row highlights ongoing linguistic sensitivities in South India’s film and cultural spheres.