Bengaluru, May 2025 — In a stirring defense of veteran actor Kamal Haasan amid the ongoing Kannada language row, Kannada superstar Shiva Rajkumar posed a direct challenge to critics questioning Haasan’s commitment to regional cinema. Speaking at a public event in Bengaluru on Tuesday, Shiva, renowned for his impactful roles in Kannada cinema, praised Haasan’s artistic contributions and influence across South Indian film industries.
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Veteran Actor Shiva Rajkumar Stands Firm for Kamal Haasan
Addressing a packed audience, Shiva Rajkumar emphatically stated, “I’m a fan of Kamal Haasan, not just for his acting, but for the inspiration he continues to provide to actors like me.” The statement came in the backdrop of rising tensions around the Kannada language row, where Kamal Haasan has faced criticism for his remarks perceived as controversial by Kannada language purists.
Shiva challenged detractors by asking, “What have you done for Kannada cinema? Before criticizing someone who has contributed immensely to the arts, we must reflect on our own contributions.” His remarks were met with applause and widespread social media support, signaling a significant moment of solidarity within the Kannada film fraternity.
The Kannada Language Row: Context and Controversy
The Kannada language row erupted last month following Kamal Haasan’s comments about language policies in Karnataka, sparking debates among cultural groups and politicians. Language preservation advocates accused Haasan of undermining Kannada’s primacy, while many in the film industry called for calm and reasoned discourse.
Experts in South Indian cultural studies, including Dr. Raghavendra Rao from Bengaluru University, note that such controversies highlight the delicate balance between regional pride and pan-Indian artistic collaborations. “Kamal Haasan has worked extensively across Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi cinema, often promoting South Indian narratives on national platforms,” Rao told us. “His multilingual filmography has been a bridge for cultural exchange.”
Impact on Kannada Cinema and Industry Dynamics
Shiva Rajkumar’s public endorsement of Kamal Haasan is seen as a move to unify the industry amid divisive debates. Kannada film analyst Preethi Srinivasan explains, “Shiva’s stance sends a message that art transcends linguistic barriers. It encourages collaboration and mutual respect in a region rich with diverse languages.”
Recent box office data also supports this view. Kamal Haasan’s multilingual projects have seen wide releases and notable success in Karnataka, boosting the Kannada film ecosystem indirectly through shared audiences and resources.
What’s Next? Industry Voices Call for Dialogue
Following Shiva Rajkumar’s comments, other prominent Kannada filmmakers and actors are expected to weigh in, potentially steering the conversation towards constructive dialogue. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce has reportedly scheduled meetings to address concerns and foster better understanding among stakeholders.
Cultural commentator Anitha Menon advocates for an inclusive approach: “Language is identity, yes, but cinema is a universal language of emotions. Celebrating talent like Kamal Haasan’s while protecting Kannada culture is not mutually exclusive.”