The Bengaluru District Police has officially issued a notice to renowned playback singer Sonu Nigam, instructing him to appear before the investigation officer within a week. This action follows an FIR registered at the Avalahalli Police Station in Bengaluru Rural District, based on a complaint by Karnataka Rakshana Vedike, a pro-Kannada organization. The complaint alleges that Nigam’s remarks during a recent concert offended Kannada-speaking audiences and created linguistic discord.
The controversy began when Nigam responded sharply to an attendee urging him to sing in Kannada at a music event at East Point College of Engineering and Technology in Virgonagar on April 25 and 26. Karnataka Rakshana Vedike claims that his response was insensitive to Kannada culture and promoted disharmony among linguistic groups in Karnataka. Following the uproar, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) announced that the industry will distance itself from Sonu Nigam, effectively restricting his engagement in future Kannada film projects.
Sonu Nigam, who has previously contributed significantly to Kannada cinema with chart-topping songs, clarified that his statements were directed at a small disruptive group and urged people not to generalize the incident. However, this explanation has done little to ease the outrage within the Kannada film fraternity. The legal proceedings continue, with police examining the nature and impact of his remarks before making further decisions.
As the investigation unfolds, the controversy has reignited discussions about linguistic pride and inclusivity in India’s entertainment industry. While some argue that artists should have the freedom to express themselves, others believe that respecting regional languages and sentiments is crucial. Sonu Nigam’s response to the police notice will likely shape his future engagements with Kannada cinema and determine whether he can restore his association with the industry.