Kichcha Sudeep corrects an anchor on SIIMA Awards stage, says, "It's Kannada, not Kannad", watch viral video

Kichcha Sudeep, a renowned actor in the Kannada film industry, made headlines during the SIIMA Awards 2024 by correcting a Hyderabadi anchor onstage. The incident occurred on September 14, 2024, in Dubai, where the anchor mistakenly referred to the Kannada language as "Kannad." This minor slip of the tongue prompted an immediate correction from Sudeep, who took the opportunity to emphasize that the language is called "Kannada" and not "Kannad."

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Sudeep's correction was not just a simple remark but a demonstration of the importance of respecting languages, especially in a diverse country like India, where linguistic identity plays a vital role in cultural preservation. As someone deeply rooted in the Kannada film industry and culture, Sudeep took a stand to ensure that his language is represented correctly. The incident sparked a conversation online, with the clip quickly going viral on platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter).

The Incident in Detail

At the SIIMA Awards, Sudeep was present to celebrate his involvement with the Celebrity Cricket League (CCL) and to promote his passion for the event. However, during an exchange with a Hyderabadi anchor, the term "Kannad" was used. Sudeep, noticing the error, promptly corrected the anchor. In the viral clip, Sudeep can be heard saying, "It’s Kannada, not Kannad."

Sudeep’s statement was met with applause and cheers from the audience, particularly from his fans who appreciated his pride in the Kannada language. The anchor quickly apologized, saying, "Kannada. Sorry." Sudeep graciously accepted the correction, replying, "Yes, Kannada. Thank you." This light-hearted yet meaningful exchange underscored the importance of linguistic accuracy and respect.

A Deeper Cultural Significance

PRIDE OF KANNADA CINEMA Its not kannad ,, its KANNADA Boss on Fire mode @#SIIMA2024 #KicchaBOSS #MaxTheMovie#BRBFirstBlood pic.twitter.com/gWTUMik4s9 K R R I I S S H H (@krriisshhtveezz) September 15, 2024

Sudeep's onstage correction may seem like a minor incident, but it holds deeper significance. In India, language is more than just a mode of communication—it is an integral part of cultural identity. Each language in India is tied to a specific history, set of traditions, and community. Misrepresenting a language, even unintentionally, can be perceived as undermining its value and the people who speak it.

The Kannada language, spoken predominantly in Karnataka, is a Dravidian language with rich literature and historical roots. Kannada speakers, like those of other regional languages, take pride in their linguistic heritage. Sudeep’s quick reaction highlighted not only his pride in Kannada but also the importance of standing up for one’s cultural identity.

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In the past, language debates in India have often sparked intense discussions, especially regarding the promotion of Hindi as the national language. This incident, while light-hearted, reminds audiences of the sensitivity surrounding linguistic identity in a multilingual country.

Not the First Time for Sudeep

Interestingly, this is not the first time Sudeep has been at the center of a language-related controversy. In 2022, he engaged in a public spat with Bollywood actor Ajay Devgn over the status of Hindi as a national language. During an event in Bengaluru, Sudeep made a comment suggesting that "Hindi is no longer the national language." This comment did not sit well with Devgn, who responded on X, questioning why Sudeep's films are dubbed in Hindi if Hindi is not the national language.

Hello @ajaydevgn sir.. the context to why i said tat line is entirely different to the way I guess it has reached you. Probably wil emphasis on why the statement was made when I see you in person. It wasn't to hurt,Provoke or to start any debate. Why would I sir https://t.co/w1jIugFid6 Kichcha Sudeepa (@KicchaSudeep) April 27, 2022

The exchange between the two actors quickly escalated into a larger debate about language, with many people from southern India supporting Sudeep's stance. Sudeep later clarified his comment, explaining that the context of his statement had been misunderstood. Devgn also acknowledged that the situation had been blown out of proportion and that "something was lost in translation."

This earlier incident set the stage for Sudeep’s assertiveness regarding language, making his correction at SIIMA 2024 a continuation of his advocacy for linguistic pride.

The Viral Effect

Following the SIIMA incident, the clip of Sudeep correcting the anchor gained widespread attention on social media. Fans of the actor lauded his pride in Kannada, while others appreciated the importance he placed on language. The viral nature of the video further amplified the message of linguistic respect, reaching a broader audience.