Folk Artist Devi Expresses Regret Over Forced Apology Regarding Gandhi's Bhajan

Patna, Dec 28 (NationPress) Folk artist Devi, who was compelled to issue a public apology after a controversy during an event organized by the BJP in Patna, remarked on Saturday that it was unwarranted and not from her heart.

The event, named Main Atal Rahunga, took place at the Bapu Auditorium in Gandhi Maidan on December 25, to celebrate the birth centenary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Devi, a celebrated folk artist, was invited to perform at this event.

The controversy sparked during Devi's performance of the famous bhajan Raghupati Raghav Rajaram, Patit Pavan Sitaram. The situation became heated when she sang the line “Ishwar Allah Tero Naam”, which has historical significance tied to Mahatma Gandhi's prayer meetings. Some attendees objected to the mention of ‘Allah’, leading to chaos on stage.

Describing the incident, Devi told IANS, “The atmosphere was fine when I started singing, but as soon as I sang “Ishwar Allah Tero Naam”, some people began protesting and creating a lot of chaos over the inclusion of Allah.”

After the uproar, Devi felt pressured to deliver a public apology. Reflecting on the experience, she shared, “I didn’t want to apologise, but I was asked to do so. I feel very sad about it.”

“For a few moments, I was unable to understand what was happening. I also got scared. Later, I realised that the issue was with the mention of Allah,” Devi explained.

In an effort to calm the crowd, Devi attempted to reason with them, assuring them there was nothing objectionable in her song. However, the protests continued, prompting her to address the audience directly.

“I came among the people and told them that if anything I said hurt you, I want to apologise,” she stated.

Devi expressed worry that the situation could escalate into vandalism and that those who invited her might face repercussions. To alleviate the tension, she offered an apology, despite feeling it was unnecessary.

“I apologised, but it was not from my heart because there was no need for it. I only apologised to pacify what I thought was a group of irrational people,” Devi mentioned.

Reflecting on India’s cultural values, she highlighted the inclusivity inherent in Hinduism and the Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the belief in the world as one family.

“This is the culture of India. Hinduism accepts everyone. But if someone had a problem with 'Allah,' I apologised for that too,” she reiterated, emphasizing her belief in unity and mutual respect while voicing her dismay over the incident.

Devi explained that her choice to perform “Raghupati Raghav Rajaram” was made independently, considering it an appropriate tribute given its connection to Mahatma Gandhi, whose ideals are rooted in unity and harmony.

“No one asked me to sing this song. I selected it myself because it is Mahatma Gandhi's favourite bhajan, and I felt it was perfect for the occasion,” she stated.

However, her performance took an unexpected turn when the line “Ishwar Allah Tero Naam” incited a 10-minute uproar.

Devi recounted that individuals on stage attempted to soothe the protestors, with BJP leader Ashwini Choubey stepping in to help calm the situation. After her apology, chants of “Jai Shri Ram” were raised to restore order.

Despite her efforts to ease the tensions, Devi expressed disappointment with the leaders present. “I think the big leaders should have come forward and clarified that there was nothing wrong with this bhajan. The people protesting were creating a ruckus for no reason,” she said.

Devi reflected on the irony of receiving the ‘Vishisht Atal Samman’ at the same event where she faced backlash for a song that she and many others have cherished since childhood.

“This song, which speaks of uniting people and conveys such a positive message, is now being protested against -- it’s shocking. It makes me feel these protestors are irrational and ignorant,” she commented.

Devi identified the protestors as members of the ‘Hindu Putra Sangathan’ and called for action against such groups.

“It is not right to protest against a song associated with Mahatma Gandhi. I will continue singing such songs in the future,” she affirmed, reiterating her commitment to spread messages of peace and unity through her music.