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Sonu Nigam Responds to Internet Backlash Over The Bengaluru Concert Row
Updated on: 05 May, 2025 04:53 PM IST |Amruta Karulkar
Sonu Nigam Concert Row
Playback singer Sonu Nigam finds himself amidst a significant controversy following his recent concert in Bengaluru. An FIR has been lodged against the renowned singer over alleged controversial remarks made during the performance, sparking outrage among Kannadigas and leading to industry repercussions. Nigam has since issued detailed statements clarifying his position and the events that transpired.
In subsequent statements, Sonu Nigam aimed to provide context. He emphasised his deep affection for Karnataka, its language, culture, and people, stating, "I have given unprecedented love to the language... I have revered my Kannada songs way more than my songs in other languages, including Hindi." He clarified that he regularly performs over an hour of Kannada songs in his Karnataka concerts.
However, Nigam asserted he felt directly threatened by one young fan right after his first song. "However, I am not a young lad to take humiliation from anyone," he stated, adding, "I am 51 years old... and am entitled to take offence for someone as young as my son threatening me directly... in the name of a language... That too right after my first song of the concert!" He described the individuals as "hell-bent on creating ruckus" despite his reassurances. "Tell me who is at fault?" he questioned.
Addressing the Pahalgam comment, Nigam, calling himself a patriot, said he despises attempts to create hate based on language, caste, or religion. He explained his comment by saying, “We need to remind such people that at Pahalgam, people weren’t asked about their language before being killed.” He felt he "had to school them" and insisted the matter concluded peacefully at the concert, followed by his Kannada song segment.
Also Read: Sonu Nigam to Fan at Bengaluru Show: This is Why Pahalgam Happened
Furthermore, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) announced on May 5, 2025, its decision to be “non-cooperative” with Sonu Nigam unless he issues a "public apology.” KFCC Chairman M Narasimhalu confirmed they would not invite Nigam to Kannada film events and requested police not permit his concerts in Bengaluru. While stopping short of an outright ban, the KFCC plans discussions with industry stakeholders regarding his existing songs in upcoming films. Producer Uday K. Mehta criticised Nigam`s statement, saying, "Nobody with a stable mind will compare a request for a song to a terror attack."
Sonu Nigam concluded his statement by leaving the verdict to the people of Karnataka, expressing trust in the legal process and affirming his love for the state, irrespective of the outcome.
Also Read: Sonu Nigam Reveals Shocking Details About AR Rahman’s Professional Relationships
The Concert Flashpoint
The incident unfolded at East Point College in Virgonagar, Bengaluru, when a few individuals in the audience repeatedly demanded Sonu Nigam sing in Kannada early in his performance. According to reports and Nigam`s own account, he perceived the tone of the request as rude and threatening. His response, however, ignited the controversy. He reportedly stated, "I had started singing Kannada songs even before he was born. This is why the Pahalgam attack happened — for such a kind of attitude. At least see who is in front of you before making such demands." This comparison of the fan`s demand to the recent tragic Pahalgam terror attack drew sharp criticism.In subsequent statements, Sonu Nigam aimed to provide context. He emphasised his deep affection for Karnataka, its language, culture, and people, stating, "I have given unprecedented love to the language... I have revered my Kannada songs way more than my songs in other languages, including Hindi." He clarified that he regularly performs over an hour of Kannada songs in his Karnataka concerts.
However, Nigam asserted he felt directly threatened by one young fan right after his first song. "However, I am not a young lad to take humiliation from anyone," he stated, adding, "I am 51 years old... and am entitled to take offence for someone as young as my son threatening me directly... in the name of a language... That too right after my first song of the concert!" He described the individuals as "hell-bent on creating ruckus" despite his reassurances. "Tell me who is at fault?" he questioned.
Addressing the Pahalgam comment, Nigam, calling himself a patriot, said he despises attempts to create hate based on language, caste, or religion. He explained his comment by saying, “We need to remind such people that at Pahalgam, people weren’t asked about their language before being killed.” He felt he "had to school them" and insisted the matter concluded peacefully at the concert, followed by his Kannada song segment.
Also Read: Sonu Nigam to Fan at Bengaluru Show: This is Why Pahalgam Happened
Legal Action and Industry Reaction
The fallout has been significant. An FIR was registered, and Karnataka police have issued Nigam a notice to appear for questioning. The investigation involves verifying video clips from the concert, which will be sent to a Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) to confirm authenticity and conduct a voice match test.Furthermore, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) announced on May 5, 2025, its decision to be “non-cooperative” with Sonu Nigam unless he issues a "public apology.” KFCC Chairman M Narasimhalu confirmed they would not invite Nigam to Kannada film events and requested police not permit his concerts in Bengaluru. While stopping short of an outright ban, the KFCC plans discussions with industry stakeholders regarding his existing songs in upcoming films. Producer Uday K. Mehta criticised Nigam`s statement, saying, "Nobody with a stable mind will compare a request for a song to a terror attack."
Sonu Nigam concluded his statement by leaving the verdict to the people of Karnataka, expressing trust in the legal process and affirming his love for the state, irrespective of the outcome.
Also Read: Sonu Nigam Reveals Shocking Details About AR Rahman’s Professional Relationships
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