Sonu Nigam Responds After Backlash for Remarks at Bengaluru Concert, Claims He Was “Humiliated” and “Threatened”

New Delhi | May 6, 2025

After facing severe backlash for his comments at a recent concert in Bengaluru, renowned singer Sonu Nigam has issued an official apology to his fans in Karnataka. The controversy arose after the singer made remarks that were seen as offensive by some attendees at the concert. In an attempt to clear the air and mend the situation, Nigam took to social media, expressing regret for his statements and emphasizing the love and respect he has for the state, its language, and culture.

Sonu Nigam’s Latest Concert – Fan Outrage Forces Public Apology

Sonu Nigam’s initial clarification came in the form of a lengthy Instagram post, where he stated, “Sorry Karnataka. My love for you is bigger than my ego. Love you always.” This apology followed his earlier remarks where he explained that his intention was never to offend anyone and that his connection with Karnataka has always been deep-rooted and sincere.

During the controversial Bengaluru concert, Nigam spoke about his admiration for the Kannada language, its rich culture, and the music that emanates from the state. He also shared that he has consistently included a significant number of Kannada songs in his performances, sometimes spanning over an hour, as a tribute to the state. Nigam’s career has seen him perform numerous Kannada hits, and he pointed out that he holds the Kannada music industry in high regard, often opting for regional songs over Hindi tracks when performing in Karnataka.

However, despite his clear respect for Kannada culture, the remarks made at the concert, which were perceived as insensitive, sparked outrage. The situation escalated when Nigam revealed that he had been “humiliated” during the event by a fan, and more disturbingly, he was “threatened” by a young individual, whom he described as being roughly the same age as his son. The incident allegedly occurred while the singer was trying to engage with the crowd, and he cited it as an example of how his intentions were misunderstood, leading to personal discomfort.

In the wake of the incident, the Kannada Film Chamber of Commerce, an influential body in the Kannada film industry, decided to boycott Sonu Nigam. The organization, which represents the interests of Kannada cinema, expressed discontent with the singer’s remarks and its impact on the state’s pride. This move has added to the growing tension between Nigam and sections of the Kannada-speaking population, with some fans expressing disappointment and calling for accountability from the artist.

Despite the controversy, Sonu Nigam has made it clear that he holds no ill will toward Karnataka and its people. In his apology, he reiterated that his love for the state and its culture has always been genuine, and he will continue to perform Kannada songs in his concerts wherever he goes. He also addressed the importance of understanding the context of his comments, urging people to look beyond the misunderstanding and focus on his longstanding respect for the state.

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