National Times Bureau, May 3, 2025: Playback singer Sonu Nigam has landed in controversy after a complaint was filed against him in Bengaluru for allegedly hurting the sentiments of Kannadigas during a concert at East Point College of Engineering and Technology on April 25.
An FIR was registered at Avalahalli Police Station following a complaint from the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada organization. They accused Nigam of making remarks that linked the audience’s demand for a Kannada song to a terror incident in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. According to the complaint, Nigam responded to shouts of “Kannada, Kannada” by saying, “This is the reason behind the incident in Pahalgam,” which they claim sparked communal and linguistic tension.
In response, Nigam released a video clarifying that his remarks were aimed at a small group of four to five aggressive students and not the Kannada-speaking community at large. He stated he has deep love for Kannada and has sung some of his best songs in the language. Nigam also emphasized his respect for the people of Karnataka, saying he always feels welcomed in the state.
The incident has drawn sharp reactions and sparked debate over language sensitivity and responsible speech in public forums.
Sonu Nigam Faces FIR for Alleged Remarks Against Kannada Sentiment at Bengaluru Concert
