Kamal Haasan postponed the 'Thug Life' audio launch, citing India-Pakistan tensions, saying, 'Art can wait; India comes first.' Read his patriotic message and full update here. Actor-politician Kamal Haasan puts national interest above cinema, delays ‘Thug Life’ event due to India-Pakistan border tensions.

Patriotism comes first 

Eminent actor and politician Kamal Haasan has once again proved himself to be a patriot with his willingness to defer the audio launch of his much-awaited movie Thug Life in the wake of growing tensions between India and Pakistan, especially along the Line of Control (LoC).

In a remark that struck a chord with fans and fellow citizens alike, Haasan stated, "Art can wait. India comes first."  He went on to add that while cinema is important to society, it should step aside when national interests are at play. Haasan, also the head of political party Makkal Needhi Maiam, added that this was not just a choice as an actor, but as a responsible Indian.

The audio launch, which was to be a big function with the cast and crew of the film attending, will now be postponed to a later date. The crew had their total backing for Haasan's position and said they would announce the new date in due course.

Mani Ratnam's Thug Life has already created a lot of buzz with its strong teaser and star cast.  But fans have appreciated Haasan's decision, hailing his sensitivity towards the mood of the country and his choice of solidarity over stardom.

With border tensions hogging the headlines, Kamal Haasan's decision has made a strong statement of patriotic duty in the film industry, reminding everyone that there are things greater than the screen.