Did Sonu Nigam Really Connect a Kannada Song Request to the Pahalgam Attack?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Controversial remarks by Sonu Nigam linking a song request to a terror attack.
- Kannada organizations demand an unconditional apology.
- Negative reactions from public figures and activists.
- Potential consequences for Nigam's career in the Kannada film industry.
- Importance of cultural sensitivity in public statements.
Bengaluru, May 2 (NationPress) Renowned singer Sonu Nigam has ignited a heated debate by associating a request for a Kannada song with the Pahalgam terror attack. Outraged Kannada organizations have demanded a formal apology from him as of Friday.
The incident took place on Thursday, May 1, during an event held at East Point College in Bengaluru. While performing, Sonu Nigam noticed an audience member calling out for a Kannada song.
In response, he paused his performance and made a controversial comment. He stated, “I have performed in various languages. Among them, the finest songs are in Kannada. I always come to Karnataka with great love and respect. You have treated me like family.”
“I readily sing Kannada songs when requested. I have been performing in Kannada longer than the age of that youth. However, I was displeased with his loud demand for ‘Kannada, Kannada’. It is such behavior that can lead to incidents like the Pahalgam attack.”
His comments attracted immediate backlash the following day. Film producer Karthik Gowda called for an apology.
“Linking a terrorist incident to a simple request for a Kannada song is sheer absurdity. At his previous events, he praised Kannadigas for their warmth, and now he makes such a reckless statement. He must apologize to the people of Karnataka,” Gowda asserted.
Various Kannada organizations expressed their anger over Sonu Nigam’s comments and questioned the rationale behind his connection between the song request and a terror attack. Some groups have even called for a ban on his performances and asked the police to take action.
Senior Kannada activist S.R. Govindu also criticized the singer.
“Is it wrong to request a Kannada song in Karnataka? Sonu Nigam is undeniably a talented artist, but his remarks were arrogant. I find it baffling that he mentioned the Pahalgam attack. The Kannada community is not involved in terrorism.”
“Such arrogant statements are unacceptable. Sonu Nigam must issue an apology. If he refuses to provide an unconditional apology, he will be barred from working in the Kannada film industry or holding events in the state,” Govindu warned.
He further stated that the Film Chamber of Commerce should take steps against Nigam to prevent him from future opportunities in Kannada cinema.
“We will issue a warning and wait for his response. If he does not apologize, we will take action,” Govindu concluded.