Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru

Bengaluru, May 3: Renowned playback singer Sonu Nigam has sparked outrage among Kannada organisations after he controversially linked an audience member’s request for a Kannada song to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The incident occurred during a performance at East Point College in Bengaluru on May 1.

While on stage, Nigam responded sharply to a youth who repeatedly shouted for a Kannada song. He acknowledged his long association with Kannada music and the affection he has received in Karnataka but added, “It is because of such behaviour that incidents like the Pahalgam attack happen.” His statement quickly drew widespread criticism.

Prominent figures, including film producer Karthik Gowda and Kannada activist S R Govindu, condemned the remarks. Gowda demanded an unconditional apology, calling the statement ‘foolish’ and out of character. Govindu termed Nigam’s words ‘arrogant’ and questioned the logic behind equating a song request in Karnataka with a terrorist act.

Several Kannada groups have urged the police to register a suo motu case and are demanding a ban on the singer's participation in the state’s film and music events unless he issues a public apology. The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce has also been urged to take disciplinary action.

Activists have warned that unless Nigam retracts his statement and apologises, he may face a boycott in the Kannada film industry.