Kamal Haasan threatens to move overseas

Veteran actor Kamal Haasan says that if the ban on his controversial film "Vishwaroopam" is not lifted, he might have to look out for a "secular state" and that can be out of the country.

"I have lost all my property for the film, so I have nothing to lose, but choose now. If the judgment is not favourable for me, I have to look out for a secular state abroad. We will get away from this place but will have lot of good memories," the 58-year-old told reporters at a press conference here.

"If there is no secular state in India, I would go overseas. I think Tamil Nadu wants me out. What would change is my passport; I would still be an Indian. I have pledged all my property for the film. I have lost my house because of delay in release," he added.

The Madras High Court Tuesday ruled in favour of "Vishwaroopam" and lifted the ban by the state government. It, however, said the administrative step was to be taken by the government. The actor says he still has to see the effect in theatres - the film has to run.

"The fact is that I have yet to get interim relief as some of my friends have reported in press. The film shows are stopped again and the police have sent away fans, asking for court order copy. I have been thrashed in a political game, monetary loss is not important," Haasan added.

The mega-budget film was due to release Jan 25, but the Tamil Nadu government banned the film following fears of law and order situation. The ban was further extended to Kerala and Andhra Pradesh.