Popular Bollywood singer Sonu Nigam has responded publicly after an FIR was registered against him for his remarks during a recent concert in Bengaluru. The singer took to Instagram to share a detailed video, clarifying the incident and urging people not to spread hate based on language.
In the video, Sonu Nigam addressed the controversy stemming from his April 25–26 musical event in Bengaluru. His comment referencing “Pahalgam” drew backlash from certain Kannada groups, who accused him of insulting the Kannada-speaking community. This led to a formal police complaint against him by a pro-Kannada organization.
“Only 4-5 Miscreants, Not the Whole Community,” Says Sonu
In his video message, Sonu said,
“Only four to five goon-type people were creating a ruckus. Thousands of others were trying to calm them down. People need to be reminded that when my pants were pulled down in Pahalgam, no one asked which language I spoke.”
He emphasized that the Kannadiga community is generally loving and respectful.
“Don’t think there’s some anti-Kannada sentiment. These 4–5 toxic people exist everywhere, and they must be reminded not to spread hate. If we allow such seeds of hatred to grow, we’ll all have to harvest the consequences later.”
Sonu Nigam added that during the Bengaluru show, a few boys even threatened him to sing in Kannada.
“They were forcing me to sing a Kannada song. But that’s not how art or respect works.”
The Controversial Remark
During his performance, Sonu reportedly said,
“I didn’t like that a boy, younger than my experience, tried to force me to sing in Kannada. That’s exactly why incidents like Pahalgam happen… Look at who you’re trying to intimidate.”
This statement was perceived as derogatory by some, sparking outrage among regional groups. The FIR alleges that his words hurt the sentiments of the Kannada-speaking public.
“Stop Spreading Hatred on the Land of Love,” Says Nigam
Sonu concluded his video by appealing for unity:
“If anyone tries to sow seeds of hatred on the land of love, they must be stopped immediately.”
