Amid backlash, Ranjani Raghavan gifts Kamal Haasan Kannada books

As actor Kamal Haasan continues to face backlash in Karnataka over his controversial statement claiming that “Kannada originated from Tamil,” actress and writer Ranjani Raghavan has drawn attention with a dignified and culturally rooted response.

In a recent Instagram post, Ranjani shared a picture of herself gifting Haasan two of her Kannada books, Style Write and Kathe Dabba. The caption read: "Kannada pustaka Kamal sir-ge" (Kannada book for Kamal sir). While the post does not specify when the meeting took place, its timing amid the ongoing controversy has sparked conversation.

Known for her beloved role as a Kannada lecturer in the hit TV serial Kannadathi, Ranjani earned the nickname “Kannada Meshtre” from fans. Her gesture is being widely interpreted as a graceful assertion of Kannada pride, true to her on-screen image.

Fans flooded her post with praise, leaving comments such as “Jai Kannadambe,” “Kannadathi teaching Kamal,” and “This is how you respond with dignity.” Many have lauded her subtle yet powerful response as a contrast to the charged political atmosphere surrounding Haasan’s remarks.

Currently, Ranjani has stepped away from acting and is focusing on direction. She recently completed DD Dikki and is in the post-production phase.

While political leaders and pro-Kannada groups continue to demand a formal apology from Kamal Haasan, Ranjani’s gesture is being celebrated as a symbolic, mature, and culturally rich response — allowing Kannada literature to speak louder than outrage.