Baahubali 2: Kamal Haasan hails Sathyaraj's choice of words in his apology to Kannadigas

Veteran Tamil actor Kamal Haasan has hailed Sathyaraj for his "rational" apology to Kannadigas over his anti-Karnataka speech that he made in 2008. The Universal Star took to Twitter to praise the actor, whose statement has now possibly paved the way for the trouble-free release of Baahubali 2 in Karnataka. 

"Congrats Mr. Sathyaraj for maintaining rationality in a troubled environement. Quoting VirumaaNdi மன்னிப்புக் கேக்கறவன் பெரியமனுசன். Bravo. [sic]" Kamal Haasan tweeted, meaning "Those who seek apology rise in stature." 

In a meet organised by the Nadigar Sangam in 2008, Sathyaraj had made "objectionable" comments against Karnataka. The video clip of the speech surfaced a few years ago and went viral after the release of Baahubali in 2015.

Protests over Sathyaraj gained momentum on the eve of the release of Baahubali 2, prompting Kannada groups to seek a ban on the film till the Tamil actor tendered apology. SS Rajamouli made several attempts to resolve the issue by taking to his friends in Sandalwood but failed, since the Kannada groups were obstinate in their demand. Finally, Sathyaraj had apologise.

On Friday, Sathyaraj came out with a recorded video of the apology. The highlights of his statement can be read below: 

I am not against Karnataka and Kannadigas. This is evident when you realise that my assistant for the past 30 years has been a Kannadiga named Shekhar.

Since then, my 30 films have been released in Karnataka without any trouble.

ome of my words in the nine-year-old clip have pained Kannadigas for which I am giving an apology. My deeds should not affect the hard work of thousands of people who worked in Baahubali.

But I promise to fight for the Tamils issue, be it related to Sri Lanka or Cauvery.

I happy that Sathyaraj has apologised for his anti-Kannada comments. It is better late than never. I am sure this will be a lesson for others, who talk low about us.