Renowned playback singer Sonu Nigam has issued a public apology to the people of Karnataka ahead of his upcoming concert in Bengaluru, which is scheduled for October 24. The singer’s outreach follows significant backlash and pressure from the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV), a pro-Kannada organisation that had previously urged the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner to deny permission for the event. The organisation cited long-standing grievances regarding comments made by the singer during a performance in April 2025.
In a video message addressing his supporters in the state, Nigam expressed a desire to preserve his connection with the local audience, noting the deep respect and affection he has received from them over the past three decades. He emphasized his intent to clarify any misunderstandings that may have caused distress. During his message, the singer stated, “When you love someone and you want the relationship to stay, you don't mind saying sorry a 1000 times.” He added that he was prepared to offer his apologies repeatedly if it would help resolve the bitterness currently surrounding the issue.
The controversy stems from an incident at East Point College in Bengaluru in April 2025. While performing on stage, Nigam was subjected to repeated requests from an audience member to sing in Kannada. In response to the manner of the request, the singer made a comparison involving the Pahalgam terror attack. This remark drew sharp criticism, with many in Karnataka interpreting the comparison as an insult to the local community. The KRV later highlighted that sentiment in their formal request to the police, asserting that the public had not forgotten the incident.
Following the emergence of the protest, Nigam engaged in what he described as a “warm and respectful” dialogue with the state president of the KRV, TA Narayana Gowda. Highlighting this interaction, the singer acknowledged his regard for Gowda and expressed hope that the conversation would serve to clear the air. “My truth is known to me, my almighty, my bhagwan, and to all the people who were there in the audience that eventful evening,” the singer noted in his appeal to the public, stressing that he did not wish for any misconceptions to taint his long-standing relationship with the state.
The singer reflected on his career in the region, noting that he has performed for years and has consistently received love and support from Kannadigas. He reiterated that he is not the type of person to intentionally hurt his audience. His primary motivation for the apology is to avoid any ongoing friction that might prevent him from engaging with his fans in Karnataka. He expressed gratitude for the years of respect he has been shown, indicating that he places high value on maintaining these personal and professional ties.
Despite the singer's efforts to seek reconciliation, the situation remains under scrutiny. The KRV had previously warned that they would hold statewide protests if their grievances regarding the 2025 remarks were not adequately addressed by authorities. As of now, the singer’s public statement represents a significant attempt to de-escalate tensions before the October 24 event. Whether this gesture will suffice to satisfy the demands of the organisation and ensure a smooth path for the concert remains to be seen as the date approaches.
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