Makers of Kamal Haasan's Thug Life say Karnataka govt failed to act when fringe groups threatened to burn down theatres - Hindustan Times

The makers of Kamal Haasan's much-anticipated film "Thug Life" have voiced their concerns over the Karnataka government's lack of action in response to threats from fringe groups. These groups reportedly threatened to burn down theatres screening the film, raising alarms about the safety of both audiences and cinema operators. The production team claims that despite alerting authorities, the government did not take adequate measures to ensure the film's smooth release. According to the film's producers, the threats have had a chilling effect on theatre owners, many of whom are apprehensive about screening "Thug Life." This hesitation could potentially impact the film's box office performance in the region. The producers emphasize that their primary concern is the safety of the public and the preservation of artistic expression, urging the government to uphold the rule of law and protect creative works from intimidation. In response to these allegations, government officials have yet to issue a formal statement addressing the situation. Meanwhile, industry insiders and fans alike are closely monitoring developments, hoping for a resolution that will allow the film to reach its audience without further incident. As the release date approaches, the situation underscores the ongoing debate about freedom of expression and the responsibilities of state authorities in safeguarding artistic endeavors.

— Authored by Next24 Live