Playback singer Sonu Nigam has addressed the controversy that emerged from his 2025 performance at a Bengaluru college, offering a detailed explanation of the events. Taking to his official Instagram handle, the singer posted a video featuring Manjunath Rao and his wife Pallavi, a couple from Karnataka. The footage captured the couple enjoying a shikara ride on Dal Lake shortly before they became victims of the terror attack in Pahalgam. Through this post, the vocalist aimed to provide complete context regarding his onstage reaction and the sentiments guiding it.
Verbal Abuse at the College Venue
Recalling the atmosphere at the Bengaluru college show, Sonu Nigam stated that vulgar remarks were directed at him from the very first song. He pointed out that nobody in everyday life would tolerate derogatory insults targeting their family. He highlighted that the event was an un-ticketed college function rather than a standard commercial concert. While he generally avoids college performances due to budget constraints, he noted that he never refused invitations from Karnataka due to his affinity for the region.
He further elaborated that whenever he performs in the state, he prepares an extensive repertoire of Kannada songs lasting an hour and a half. These selections are traditionally scheduled for the high point of his performance. However, during the college event, verbal harassment began almost immediately, creating a difficult environment before the performance could progress as planned.
Context Behind the Pahalgam Reference
Explaining why he invoked the Pahalgam terror attack during the performance, the singer shared that the viral video of the Karnataka couple had deeply impacted him. In that video, the couple had spoken with pride about being from Karnataka while praising their travel experience in Kashmir, only to be fatally targeted minutes later. Sonu Nigam explained that the reference was meant to highlight how senseless hatred claims innocent lives, and that regional identity offered no protection against such violence.
He also expressed gratitude to Kannada audiences for turning out in large numbers to make recent concerts houseful, adding that he did not want any lingering discomfort or misunderstanding among people he holds in high regard.
Response to KRV Objections
Addressing the Kannada organisation Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, the singer acknowledged their affection for the language and its people. He pointed out, however, that representatives of the group were not present at the venue to witness what transpired. He suggested that people speak to the audience members who attended the college show, describing how embarrassed many of them felt when the slurs were being shouted.
Reflecting on his career, he noted that he has contributed to Kannada music and culture for 30 years. He recalled instances at concerts with 30,000 non-Kannada listeners where he gladly performed a Kannada track upon a single attendee's request. He also stated that having worked for 49 years in the profession, he is not driven by financial desperation when choosing to take the stage.
Revival of the Dispute Ahead of Upcoming Concerts
The controversy initially broke out in April 2025 when remarks made during a college show in Bengaluru were met with criticism from pro-Kannada groups, including KRV. The issue resurfaced ahead of his upcoming concert commitments in Bengaluru, with the organisation calling on authorities to deny permission for the event and threatening demonstrations if the show goes forward. This prompted the singer to revisit the incident and publish his explanation online.
