Latest news with #Sandalwood
India Today
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Kamal Haasan defiant amid Kannada row: Will only apologise if I am wrong
Veteran actor Kamal Haasan on Friday dismissed demands for a public apology over his recent remarks on the Kannada language, asserting that he would apologise only if he were in the wrong, which he believes is not the case in the current controversy. The actor said this is his way of life, and urged people not to interfere with it."If I'm wrong, I'll apologise. If I'm not, I won't. This is my lifestyle, please don't tamper with it," the 70-year-old actor responded to the language row, exclusively speaking to India Today. He added, "India is a democratic country, and I believe in law and justice".advertisementActor-politician Kamal Haasan's recent statement that "Kannada was born out of Tamil", made during a promotional event for his upcoming film Thug Life, has sparked widespread outrage in Karnataka, with pro-Kannada groups, cultural organisations, and several political leaders targetting the actor and demanding an apology. Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) had announced that it will not allow the release Thug Life in Karnataka unless Kamal Haasan, one of the tallest figures in South Indian films, issues a public apology by questioned about these threats, the actor simply responded, "I've been threatened before". At a recent event, Kamal Haasan began his speech with the phrase 'Uyire Urave Tamizhe,' which translates to 'My life and my family is Tamil.' He went on to say, 'Actor Shivarajkumar (from Karnataka) is my family living in another state. That's why he is here. That's why when I started my speech, I said 'my life and my family is Tamil'. Your language (Kannada) was born out of Tamil. So you are included in that line".advertisementThese remarks drew sharp reactions from Kannada outfits, political leaders, and Sandalwood, while the Tamil film fraternity rallied in support of the the ruling Congress in Karnataka said Haasan was not aware of the greatness of Kannada, the BJP demanded an apology from the actor-politician, saying he "disrespected" the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, condemning the remarks, said the Kannada language has a very long history, and actor Kamal Haasan is unaware of it. "Kannada language has a very long (Kamal Hassan) doesn't know," he told Minister for Backward Classes Welfare, Kannada and Culture, Shivaraj Tangadagi, called for a ban of the actor's film and sent out a letter to the Film Chamber, arguing that Haasan's speech deeply hurt the sentiments of all Kannadigas."No matter how big a person is, one cannot tolerate such statements when it comes to our land, water and language. Kamal Haasan should immediately apologise to Kannadigas. And if he does not, the films in which he has acted should be banned immediately in Karnataka," read the Tamil actors and members of the Kollywood came out in support of Kamal Hassan amid the row. Actors Divya Spandana and Vinodhini Vaidyanathan, among others, backed him, saying all South Indian languages are Dravidian languages, also calling the controversy an "unnecessary ruckus".Meanwhile, Kamal Haasan, who heads the political outfit Makkal Needhi Maiam, an ally of the DMK, is set to be named the DMK's nominee to the Rajya InTrending Reel
Deccan Herald
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Deccan Herald
Kamal Haasan just spoke facts: Tamil Nadu leaders support film icon over language row
Kamal Haasan had earlier this week said Tamil was the mother to Kannada while welcoming Sandalwood superstar Shiva Rajkumar as his 'own brother' at an event to promote his latest flick Thug Life, directed by ace filmmaker Maniratnam.
India.com
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Bad news for Kamal Haasan as Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah issues tough warning to actor over….
Bad news for Kamal Haasan as Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah issues tough warning to actor over…. Actor Kamal Haasan has landed in trouble after making a controversial remark during the audio launch of his upcoming film, Thug Life. By Shawn Dass Advertisement South actor Kamal Haasan has been making headlines these days due to his upcoming film Thug Life, set to release on June 5, 2025. During his aggressive PR promotion in Chennai, Kamal Haasan made a controversial remark where he claimed that the Tamil language gave birth to Kannada. During the audio launch, Kamal's recent remarks spread like wildfire, hurting the sentiments of the Kannada people. Recently, Karnataka culture minister Shivaraj Tangadagi on Wednesday warned the Tamil actor to apologise for the controversial remarks he made against the Kannada language. Tangadagi demanded an apology from Kamal Haasan for his remarks or face a ban in Sandalwood cinema. Advertisement === 'Kamal Haasan has spoken inappropriately about Kannadigas. Kannadigas will not tolerate this. He should apologise. If he doesn't, I shall write to the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce. I am writing today. He should apologise at any cost. There is no question about it. Else, we will ensure that his films will be banned from being screened in the state,' Tangadagi said. Kamal Haasan is being severely criticised after this statement. In Bangalore, pro-Kannada groups showed their anger and tore the posters of his film 'Thug Life'. They also demanded a ban on his film. Advertisement === Recently, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah commented on Kamal Haasan's controversial comment. The CM highlighted that, Kannada language has had a long history and Haasan is illiterate about it. 'Kannada language has a very long history…he (Kamal Haasan) doesn't know,' said Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to reporters. Other pro-Kannada organisations like Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) condemned the statement. KRV leader Praveen Shetty said in a video statement, 'Kamal Haasan said Tamil is better than Kannada. If he wants to do business in Karnataka, he should stop insulting Kannada. Your film cannot be promoted at the cost of our language and pride. We are ready to protest, even ban your film.'
Pink Villa
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
3 Kannada movies releasing on OTT this week (May 26-June 1): Vidyapati, Agnyathavasi and Firefly
Kannada cinema, aka Sandalwood, has seen some terrific movies hitting the big screens. From thrillers and romance to comedy, these films have broken the stereotypical mold and brought fresh perspectives to the table. Now, these unique projects are making their way to digital platforms. Without further ado, here are the 3 Kannada films releasing on OTT this week. 3 Kannada movies releasing on OTT this week Vidyapati Vidyapati revolves around the life of Siddu, a proclaimed freeloader who lives off the fame and wealth of his wife, Vidya, a famous actress. Things take a turn for the worse after an unexpected altercation with a local goon, leading Vidya to evict him from their house. This forces Siddu into deep introspection, where he realizes the need to earn respect and prove his worth to his wife. Agnyathavasi Set against the misty forests of Malnad in the '90s, Agnyathavasi tells the story of a remote village untouched by modernity. The surprising murder of a scholar suddenly shakes the village awake. As the investigation unfolds, the arrival of a computer brings clarity to many village happenings—including the case itself—and helps unearth the killer. Firefly Firefly revolves around the life of Vicky, who faces one tragedy after another upon returning to India from abroad. After losing his parents in an accident, he falls into a coma for months. As he recovers, Vicky grapples with lost time, depressive thoughts, and insomnia. During this difficult period, he meets Neha through a dating app, who helps him see the light beyond the tunnel.
NDTV
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
50 Years, 300 Films, And Counting: Anant Nag Honoured With Padma Bhushan Award
Veteran Sandalwood actor Anant Nag was awarded the prestigious Padma Bhushan in 2025 by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. This honour recognises his remarkable contribution to Indian cinema over the past five decades. Anant Nag is widely celebrated for his versatility and powerful performances in Kannada, Hindi, and Marathi films. With a career spanning more than 300 films, he has earned a special place in the hearts of audiences across India. Beyond films, Anant Nag has also made significant contributions to theatre, showcasing his deep roots in performing arts. Watch the video here: Veteran Kannada Actor, Anant Nag receives the #PadmaBhushan from President #DroupadiMurmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan Anant Nag is known for his versatility and contribution to Indian cinema over the past 5 decades #PeoplesPadma #PadmaAwards2025 — PIB India (@PIB_India) May 27, 2025 For Hindi film viewers, Anant Nag is best known for his memorable roles in the iconic TV series Malgudi Days. The show featured some of the finest Kannada actors with strong theatre backgrounds, including Girish Karnad, Suhasini Adarkar, and Vaishali Kasaravalli. Produced by T.S. Narasimhan, Malgudi Days featured Anant Nag in 13 episodes, further expanding his popularity beyond Kannada cinema. Key achievements of the veteran actor: Acted in over 300 films in Kannada, Hindi, and Marathi. Starred in Malgudi Days, gaining recognition beyond Kannada cinema. Won 6 Filmfare Awards and 5 State Film Awards. Recognised for versatility and contributions to Indian cinema and theatre. Received the Padma Bhushan Award in 2025 for excellence. Throughout his career, Anant Nag has won six Filmfare awards and five State Film awards, highlighting his consistent excellence. Despite his vast success, he never initially aspired to become an actor, which makes his journey even more inspiring. President Droupadi Murmu presents Padma Bhushan in the field of Art to Shri Anant Nag. Shri Anant is a veteran Kannada Film actor known for his versatility and contribution to Indian cinema over the past 5 decades. He has captivated audiences across languages, regions, and… — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) May 27, 2025 Kannadigas and fans nationwide had long hoped for this recognition, and the Padma Bhushan award has been widely celebrated as a well-deserved honour. Anant Nag's contribution to Indian cinema and theatre remains unmatched, making him one of the most respected and beloved figures in the industry.
