Singer Sonu Nigam addressed controversy surrounding a recent incident at a performance in Karnataka, where he allegedly refused to perform in Kannada after a fan's request. In a clarification posted on Monday, Sonu explained that he has always shown deep respect for the culture, music, and language of Karnataka, and even prepares a special set of Kannada songs for such performances. However, he claimed that during the concert, a fan humiliated him and made threats, which he found unacceptable, especially given the fan was much younger. Sonu explained that he responded politely but was provoked by the fan and others in the audience, who continued to create a disturbance. He also linked the incident to his patriotism, referencing the recent Pahalgam attack, and expressed his opposition to creating divisions based on language, caste, or religion.

https://youtube.com/shorts/KnxyNHO21uE?si=aBzrcBH7eo5tZfQl 

In the aftermath, the Bengaluru District Police issued a notice to Sonu Nigam after an FIR was filed accusing him of making offensive remarks against the Kannadiga community. Additionally, the Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) announced a "non-cooperation" campaign against the singer, demanding an apology for his comments.