Following is a statement issued by Kamal Haasan to the media today:

My attention has been drawn to reports in a section of the press that Pyramid Saimira has obtained a stay against the release of our movie ‘Unnaipol Oruvan’. It is not true.

I am glad to be given an opportunity to state facts.

The debacle of our film ‘Marmayogi’ and circumstances around it are well known. I worked on ‘Marmayogi’ exclusively, without taking up any other assignment for an year, made elaborate preparations, had sets built and even did some shooting, directing and acting.

The project was put on back burner because Pyramid Saimira could not come up with funds for continuing shooting.

Having lost one year of my career, and an income of about Rs 40 crore, I had issued a notice to Pyramid Saimira on 12th April 2009 demanding payment of Rs 40 crore.. No reply has so far been received from Pyramid to the notice.

We have also had caveats entered against Pyramid Saimira in courts. I have also caused a suit to be filed in the High Court of Madras against Pyramid Saimira. Probably, to counter my legal action against them, they have decided to go to the press on a smear campaign and they have sent me a notice making wild and false allegations.

An interim reply also has been sent to it. The fact remains that I have obtained a caveat against them. Neither I nor Raaj Kamal Films International have received any stay order from any court.

I must state that irresponsible statements made or published damage my reputation and my company. I will shortly be seeking legal advice to examine the avenues open for me.

Sincerely

Kamal Haasan