Shivarajkumar opens up on Kamal Haasan's controversial comments about Kannada

At the recent Thug Life audio launch in Chennai, Kamal Haasan said that Kannada originated from Tamil, inciting furious responses from political parties and the people of Karnataka. The other day, Kamal clarified that his remark was a "statement of love to Mr Shivanna" (Actor Shivarajkumar). Now, Shivarajkumar has responded to the row over Kamal's remark at a recent event. "Kamal Haasan holds Kannada in high regard," said Shivarajkumar before adding, "He has only good things to tell about Bengaluru as well."

Shivarajkumar was present at the Thug Life audio launch when Kamal made the remark. He reiterated his love and admiration for Kamal, describing the latter as his inspiration. "Kamal sir knows what he has said, and he will give an appropriate response," said the Bhairathi Ranagal star. The actor also asked the media to not limit such news reporting only to big stars. "You must support young talents from the film industry. Nobody talks about newcomers," he said.

With calls to ban Kamal's upcoming film Thug Life in Kannada, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) had a meeting today, but it has not yet made a decision. According to a source close to the development, KFCC insists on a public statement from Kamal settling the matter for it to permit the Kannada release of Thug Life.