Sonu Nigam blamed for ‘hurting’ sentiments Kannadiga community
Noted Indian singer Sonu Nigam has been booked for making allegedly disrespectful remarks against the Kannadiga community during a musical programme in Bengaluru.
According to Indian media, Sonu Nigam is accused of hurting the sentiments of the Kannadiga community and inciting discord among various linguistic groups in Karnataka.
The police registered a case based on a complaint filed by Dharma Raj, a member of the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike. Sonu Nigam has been charged with criminal intimidation, public mischief, and intentional insult with intent to provoke a breach of peace, local media reported.
As per the complaint, the incident occurred on April 25 on the outskirts of Bengaluru, where Nigam was performing. A fan requested him to sing a Kannada song, to which he reportedly took offence and responded that such an attitude was the reason behind the Pahalgam attack.
“This is why the Pahalgam attack happened — because of such attitudes. At least look at who is in front of you before making such demands. I didn’t like the way he asked,” Nigam said, while also claiming he has immense respect and love for Kannadigas.
The complainant alleged that the incident caused deep anguish among local fans, who felt insulted and offended by Nigam’s remarks. The video of the exchange went viral on social media, allegedly fostering hatred among communities, the complaint added.
The police are currently gathering details of the incident and are expected to summon the event organisers for questioning.
Responding to the controversy on Saturday, Nigam claimed he was “threatened by four to five thugs” during the concert. “People in the crowd even told them not to disturb the event. Others asked me politely,” he said in a video posted on his Instagram account.
He further claimed that the individuals had been demanding Kannada songs even before the concert began. “My show hadn’t even started, and these guys looked at me rudely and demanded Kannada songs. No artist should tolerate threats from the audience,” he said.
Addressing the Pahalgam reference that sparked outrage, Nigam said, “We must remind people that in Pahalgam, people weren’t asked about their language before being killed.”
He reiterated his admiration for Kannadigas, saying, “They are very sweet people. At every concert, I dedicate a one-hour set to Kannada songs.”
Sonu Nigam is one of the most sought-after singers in the Kannada film industry, especially after the success of the 2006 film Mungaru Male. He has also sung hits in films such as Gaalipata (2008), Milana (2007), Sanju Weds Geetha 2 (2011), among others.
