Kamal Haasan, acclaimed actor and filmmaker, has stirred controversy with his statement at a Chennai function, claiming Kannada “originated from Tamil.” This remark sparked a wave of criticism across Karnataka, where language is a deeply personal and political issue.
Top leaders including Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah dismissed the comment as uninformed. Language groups like Karnataka Rakshana Vedike launched protests, even threatening to halt screenings of Haasan’s upcoming film Thug Life in Bengaluru. Despite the backlash, Haasan stood firm, stating his views came from affection, not hierarchy.
The uproar underscores a broader conflict — language in India isn’t merely a communication tool but a symbol of culture, dignity, and belonging. South Indian states have historically resisted linguistic dominance, especially the imposition of Hindi. What began as anti-centralisation movements have slowly turned inward, targeting not governments but vulnerable migrants.
In cities like Bengaluru, this tension is visible daily. Locals feel displaced, while migrants often face harassment for not speaking Kannada. Delivery agents, auto drivers, and vendors frequently become scapegoats in these cultural disputes. On the flip side, expecting locals to adapt to Hindi reflects a lack of sensitivity.
Language pride is valid, but turning it into aggression is dangerous. India’s strength lies in its diversity — a fusion of tongues, not their separation. As poet Amir Khusrau once blended Persian and Hindavi in harmony, perhaps it’s time we blended respect with pride, too.
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