Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM) president and actor Kamal Haasan clarified on Wednesday that his recent comment stating “Kannada was born out of Tamil” was made with affection and not intended to offend anyone. “What I said came from a place of love. Many historians have taught me about the history of languages. I didn’t mean any harm,” Haasan said.

He further noted that his statement was not a response, but an explanation, adding that genuine love never requires an apology. “This is not a reply, it's an explanation. Love doesn’t apologise,” he said. Haasan’s remark sparked controversy earlier this week, drawing criticism from pro-Kannada groups in Karnataka, who demanded an apology and threatened to block the release of his upcoming film Thug Life, directed by Mani Ratnam, in the state.

During his clarification, Haasan highlighted Tamil Nadu’s cultural inclusiveness by referencing former chief ministers from various backgrounds. “Tamil Nadu is a state where a Menon has served as CM, a Reddy has been CM, a Tamilian has been CM, and even a Kannadiga Iyengar has been CM,” he said, likely referring to the late J. Jayalalithaa.

Haasan also emphasized that language is a subject best handled by experts, not politicians. “Politicians, myself included, are not qualified to speak on matters of language. These deep discussions should be left to historians, archaeologists, and language scholars,” he said. In response, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Haasan lacks understanding of Kannada’s rich linguistic heritage. “Kannada has a long history... Kamal Haasan doesn’t know that,” Siddaramaiah told the media.