The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has decided to extend full non-cooperation to singer Sonu Nigam, demanding a public apology after his recent remarks during a concert in Bengaluru.The move follows widespread outrage after Sonu Nigam compared a request for a Kannada song to the Pahalgam terror attack, during a performance on April 25.
At a concert held at East Point College of Engineering in Avalahalli, Sonu Nigam was asked by an audience member to sing in Kannada. The singer, who has performed extensively in the language, responded, “The best songs I have sung are in Kannada... I didn’t like it when a boy asked me to sing in Kannada. He was so rudely threatening, ‘Kannada, Kannada.’ This is the reason for the Pahalgam attack.”
The statement drew sharp criticism and sparked backlash across Karnataka, with several film and pro-Kannada organisations accusing him of hurting theirl sentiments by equating linguistic pride with terrorism.
"It’s not about his talent. He is one of the best India and Kannada have seen," said Dharma Vish, General Secretary of the Karnataka Film Musicians Association. "But comparing people from a state to terrorists is deeply damaging. His so-called apology on Facebook didn’t seem genuine. The industry has decided on non-cooperation until a real apology is made."
Dharma added that while performers may face pressure on stage, Nigam could have handled the situation with more composure. “Kannadigas truly love him. Some express their love softly, others more aggressively. That must have been what happened. But his reaction was unfortunate,” he said. He that Kannada organisations and directors have taken up the issue seriously. “One director has already decided not to have him sing in any of his films.”
“The entire Karnataka state, all regions will not cooperate with Sonu Nigam. It’s as good as a ban,” said Narasimhalu, President of the Karnataka Film Chamber. “I tried contacting him, but his phone was switched off. He must apologise unconditionally to the people of Karnataka.”
Meanwhile, Avalahalli Police in Bengaluru Rural district have issued a notice to Sonu Nigam in relation to a complaint filed by a pro-Kannada organisation. The complaint alleges that Sonu Nigam made comments insulting Kannadigas during the concert. The singer has been asked to appear before the police within a week.
Earlier, Dharmaraj A, president of the Bengaluru district unit of Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, filed a complaint, stating that Sonu Nigam's words had hurt the sentiments of Kannadigas and were likely to incite violence and communal tension in the state.