Super star Rajnikant, caught in the crossfire between Tamilians and Kannadigas over his anti-kannadiga statements in his latest movie, Kuselan has publicly apologized to the people of Karnataka.

Speaking to Kannada channels, Rajinikant said, “This incident has taught me a lesson. I shall never commit such a mistake again. Please allow the release of Kuselan in Karnataka.”

“The people who are opposing me are also children of Karnataka. They are doing it for their state. Please, please forget the past and whatever I have said. Allow me to release my film. I am ready to help Kannadigas also,” the actor added.

Earlier he had received threats from Kannadiga organizations to stop screening of Kuselan in Karnataka.

The threat comes days after the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) had given its nod for the film’s release in the state. Kuselan will be released on Friday.

Kannada organizations led by Karnataka Rakshana Vedike have demanded a public apology from Rajinikant for making strong remarks against them and the state during the Hogenakal agitation.

Protestors from the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike shouted slogans against Rajinikant at Bangalore theatres. Three prominent theaters in the state had already declared that they would not screen the film.

He was hesitating with a public apology, as he would have appeased the Kannadiga group but invited the ire of the Tamilian side.