“Speak Kannada, Even in Silicon Valley?” Sonu Nigam Mocks Karnataka Language Politics
Bengaluru: Playback singer Sonu Nigam has stirred controversy yet again, this time wading into Karnataka’s ongoing language debate by taking a public swipe at BJP MP Tejasvi Surya. The dispute, which began with a viral video of a bank official allegedly refusing to converse in Kannada, has now evolved into a broader conversation on linguistic identity, software exports, and political double standards.
Sonu Nigam’s Sarcastic Take on Kannada Mandate
The controversy erupted after Surya tweeted that “Banks working in Karnataka should serve customers in Kannada. Period.” In response, Sonu Nigam took to X (formerly Twitter) with biting sarcasm. Writing in Hindi, he suggested, “Kannada language should also be made mandatory in software companies. If American clients want to get their projects done in Karnataka, they should also speak in Kannada. There should be no compromise on this.”
Sonu Nigam followed up with a sharper jab: “Don’t dub Kannada movies in Hindi! Don’t release Kannada movies pan-India! Do you have the guts to say this to Kannada film stars, Mr. Tejasvi_Surya, or are you just another language warrior?”
Political and Public Reaction
Sonu Nigam’s comments came shortly after Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah criticized the incident involving the SBI bank manager, reiterating that all staff in public-facing roles must be respectful and willing to communicate in the local language.
While Nigam’s remarks echoed the sentiments of many who see hypocrisy in selective language enforcement, they also reopened wounds in his own relationship with Kannada audiences. The singer had recently faced backlash for controversial remarks made during an April 22 concert in Bengaluru, prompting a police complaint by a pro-Kannada group.
Apology and Fallout
On May 5, Sonu Nigam issued a public apology saying, “Sorry Karnataka… My love is bigger than my ego.” Despite this, tensions remain high. His planned Kannada release “Kuladalli Keelyavudi” has reportedly been pulled following the backlash over his earlier remarks and behavior at the Bengaluru concert.
For More: Kanye West’s Met Gala Antics Prompt Extra Security Measures, ‘No Drama Allowed’