Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, Activists Slam Actor for “Baseless” Statement
Bengaluru: Actor-turned-politician Kamal Haasan has stirred controversy with his recent remark claiming that Kannada is derived from Tamil, drawing sharp criticism from Kannada language activists and cultural organisations. The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike and several prominent voices have denounced the statement, calling it historically inaccurate and deeply offensive to the linguistic pride of Kannadigas.
Speaking to the media, T.A. Shivakumar, State President of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, called the statement “false, malicious, and hurtful to the sentiments of Kannadigas.”
“Kannada Has an Independent History” – Narayana Gowda
Veteran Kannada activist and Kannada Chaluvali Vatal Paksha leader Narayana Gowda strongly objected to Kamal Haasan’s claim.
“While both Kannada and Tamil belong to the Dravidian language family, they have evolved independently with their own rich histories, literature, and cultures,” Gowda said.
He pointed out that Kannada has a documented history of over 4,600–5,000 years, and the Halmidi inscription (circa 450 A.D.) is strong evidence of Kannada’s early development and autonomous identity as a language.
Call for Unity Among South Indian Languages
Gowda warned that such remarks could undermine the unity among South Indian states, especially at a time when there is a collective opposition to Hindi imposition and cultural homogenization.
“This is a divisive and politically motivated remark. It does not just hurt Kannadigas but damages the dignity of all South Indian languages,” he asserted.
Demand for an Apology
While acknowledging Kamal Haasan’s contributions to Indian cinema, including Kannada films, the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike condemned his statement and urged him to issue a public apology and retract his claim.
“Kamal Haasan is a respected actor, but such careless remarks spread misinformation and breed unnecessary linguistic hatred,” said Shivakumar.
The Vedike has also appealed to all Kannadigas to unite and raise their voice against any attempt to distort the history or diminish the status of the Kannada language.
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