Sonu Nigam Faces Boycott From Kannada Film Industry After Controversial Concert Remark

Singer Sonu Nigam has found himself at the center of controversy following a statement made during a recent concert in Bengaluru, where he was seen addressing an audience member’s demand to sing in Kannada. A video clip from the event has since gone viral, sparking strong reactions—particularly from members of the Kannada film industry.

According to a report by News18, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce is set to hold a key meeting on Monday, May 5, in Bengaluru. Representatives from the Music Directors Association, Directors Association, and Producers Association are expected to attend. One of the items on the agenda, as per the report, is to discuss the possibility of refraining from collaborating with Sonu Nigam on future Kannada film projects.

Well-known Kannada composers including Sadhu Kokila, Harikrishna, Arjun Janya, and Dharma Vish are likely to be part of the meeting. The report suggests that sections of the industry feel “let down” by the singer’s remarks.

What Sparked the Controversy

The incident occurred on April 25, during a live concert at a college in Bengaluru. When members of the audience repeatedly called out for Sonu to sing in Kannada, the singer appeared visibly frustrated. Addressing the crowd, he said, “Kannada, Kannada. This is the reason behind the incident in Pahalgam,” referencing a recent terror attack. The comment was widely interpreted as linking linguistic demands to communal tension.

Following the incident, an FIR was filed against Sonu Nigam at the Avalahalli Police Station in Bengaluru.

Sonu Nigam Responds

In response to the backlash, Sonu posted a video on Instagram clarifying his remarks. He stated that he was threatened by a small group of individuals during the event and asked the public not to generalize the entire Kannada-speaking community based on the actions of a few. The singer emphasized his deep respect for Kannada language and culture and said his comments were taken out of context.

As the Kannada entertainment industry awaits the outcome of Monday’s meeting, the controversy continues to stir debate around language, regional identity, and artistic freedom.