Sonu Nigam May Face Ban In Sandalwood After His 'Pahalgam' Remark Causes Furore In Karnataka

Popular singer Sonu Nigam is at the centre of a row after a remark he made during a Bengaluru concert sparked outrage. As per a News18 report, Nigam may face a ban from singing in Kannada films in the future.

In a video circulating online, the singer is seen reprimanding a group of attendees at the event who persistently urged him to sing in Kannada.

Photo Credit: PTI

Although Nigam has since issued a clarification, a new report suggests that the Kannada film industry is now considering distancing itself from the artist.

The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce is set to hold a meeting in Bengaluru on May 5, which will include representatives from the Music Directors' Association, Directors' Association, and Producers' Association.

One of the topics on the agenda is reportedly the proposal to avoid involving Sonu Nigam in future Kannada film projects. The industry is said to be displeased with the singer's recent comments and the controversy that ensued.

Prominent music composers from the Kannada industry - including Sadhu Kokila, Harikrishna, Arjun Janya, and Dharma Vish - are expected to be present at the meeting. The report states that many in the industry feel disappointed and betrayed by Nigam's remarks.

What transpired

On April 25, at a college fest in Bengaluru, Nigam halted his concert in between when a member from the audience began loudly insisting he sing in Kannada.

In response to the repeated chants of "Kannada, Kannada," a visibly irritated Nigam made a sharp comment from the stage, referencing the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.

He said, "Kannada. Kannada. This is the reason behind what happened in Pahalgam."

An FIR was subsequently lodged against him at the Avalahalli Police Station in Bengaluru.

Nigam later posted a video on Instagram explaining his side of the story. He claimed he was "threatened" by a small group of young men at the event and urged the public not to generalise or blame the entire community for the actions of a few individuals.