Veteran playback singer Sonu Nigam has found himself embroiled in a rapidly intensifying controversy due to remarks he made during a recent concert in Bengaluru. The comments, deemed insensitive and hurtful by sections of the local audience and activists, have prompted major repercussions, including the removal of a song sung by him from an upcoming Kannada film.
The Incident: Bengaluru Concert Sparks Fury
The controversy began at a live musical event hosted at East Point College of Engineering and Technology in Virgonagar, Bengaluru. During the performance, Nigam reportedly made a statement that was perceived by attendees as disrespectful towards the Kannada-speaking community.
A video of the event circulated widely on social media, in which Nigam was allegedly heard making comments that questioned the linguistic preferences of certain groups in the audience. Activists and audience members claimed that his tone and choice of words were condescending and divisive.
Following this, Dharmaraj A, President of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) — a pro-Kannada organization — filed a formal police complaint against the singer. He accused Nigam of delivering “objectionable and emotionally provocative” remarks that not only hurt Kannadiga sentiments but also had the potential to incite discord among linguistic communities in Karnataka.
Legal Action: FIR Registered Against Sonu Nigam
As the outrage grew louder, the Bangalore City Police booked Nigam under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code. An FIR was registered under IPC Sections 351(2), 352(I), and 353, relating to provocation with intent to cause riot, assault or criminal force, and determent of public servant from duty. These charges could lead to legal proceedings unless the issue is resolved amicably or withdrawn by the complainants.
The Fallout: Kannada Film Industry Responds Firmly
The cultural and entertainment sectors in Karnataka wasted no time in reacting. One of the most notable consequences came from the team of the upcoming Kannada film “Kuladalli Keelyavudo”, in which Sonu Nigam had lent his voice to a track titled “Manasu Haadtade”.
On Wednesday, the film’s producers issued a statement announcing the removal of the song from the final cut of the film. Speaking to reporters, Santosh Kumar, the film’s producer, expressed deep disappointment. “We were thrilled to have someone of Sonu Nigam’s stature on board. But we cannot tolerate any insult to Kannada or to our people. As a mark of protest and solidarity with our audience, we are removing the song and will not work with him in the future,” he said.
The film’s music director and lyricist were also reportedly distressed by the development but stood by the decision in support of the larger sentiment.
Industry-Wide Action: Ban by Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce
The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC), a pivotal body in the Kannada film industry, stepped in with an official response. In a closed-door meeting with various stakeholders, the chamber resolved to ban any professional collaborations with Sonu Nigam until further notice.
According to KFCC representatives, this action is not just punitive but symbolic — aimed at emphasizing the importance of respecting local cultures and languages, especially by national or non-Kannada artists working in the regional domain.
Sonu Nigam’s Response: Apology Issued, But Unaccepted by Some
In the face of growing backlash, Nigam took to social media and issued a formal apology. He clarified that his comments were misunderstood and that he never intended to offend any linguistic or cultural group. “I have always loved and respected all languages of India, especially Kannada, which has given me some beautiful musical memories,” he wrote.
However, the apology has not been universally accepted. Several activists and fans believe that an apology is insufficient given the perceived tone of the original remarks.
Public Reaction: Mixed Sentiments and Online Divides
The controversy has also sharply divided netizens. On platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, hashtags such as #BoycottSonuNigam and #RespectKannada began trending. Some users called for cultural sensitivity and accountability, while others urged caution, claiming the incident may have been blown out of proportion due to selective editing of the concert video.
Cultural experts and political observers see this episode as another flashpoint in the ongoing national debate about linguistic pride, regional identity, and the responsibilities of public figures in a culturally diverse country like India.
What’s Next: A Career Crossroads?
While it remains to be seen whether the legal case will proceed or be resolved quietly, this controversy could have lasting effects on Sonu Nigam’s relationship with the Kannada music and film industries. It may also set a precedent for how regional film bodies deal with similar controversies involving celebrities in the future.
For now, Nigam finds himself at a crossroads — caught between damage control and the very real possibility of being distanced by an entire linguistic and cultural community.
By – Sonali
