Bollywood playback singer Neha Kakkar is at the center of a major controversy after her recent concert in Melbourne turned into a dramatic blame game between her and the event organizers. A video of the singer tearfully addressing the audience about delays and alleged mistreatment surfaced online, stirring emotions among fans. However, the concert organizers have now strongly refuted her allegations and leveled serious counterclaims.
Neha’s Accusations: Mismanagement and Non-Payment
Following the event, Neha took to social media to express her frustration, accusing the organizers of mismanagement, non-payment, and lack of hospitality. In her statement, she alleged that her band members were not provided with basic necessities such as food and water, and that her professional dues were not cleared. The singer also cited poor backstage arrangements and said she was emotionally distressed by the ordeal.
Organizers Hit Back with Counterclaims
However, Bikram Singh Randhawa, a key member of the organizing team, told host Siddharth Kanan in an interview that Neha’s version was misleading. “She was supposed to perform at 7:30 PM, but she came only at 10 PM. By then, the audience, some of whom had paid up to AUD 300 (around ₹15,000–16,000), were visibly upset. In Australia, people respect punctuality,” he said.
Randhawa emphasized that Neha had already been paid in full and was provided with “lavish accommodation” as per her specifications. He alleged that the singer showed reluctance to perform after seeing a turnout of only 700 attendees. “She said, ‘Only 700 people? I won’t perform until this place fills up,’” he added.
Eyewitnesses Support Organizers’ Claims
The event host Pace D also confirmed the organizers’ narrative. “Everyone was ready. Her microphone and technical setup were all in place. Opening acts had already performed. But she kept delaying and saying she wouldn’t perform,” he stated, adding that the organizers were visibly upset at the last-minute issues.
He further backed the professionalism of the local production house, Beat Production, and said, “Preet Pabla, the event organizer, is a genuine person. He told me Neha refused to come on stage multiple times despite everything being set up to her standards.”
Fans React as Controversy Escalates
The incident has left fans divided. While some stood by Neha Kakkar, citing her past professionalism and emotional honesty, others criticized the singer for allegedly being disrespectful to the audience and organizers. The concert, which was expected to be a vibrant musical celebration, instead made headlines for all the wrong reasons.
This incident adds to the growing list of artist-event clashes in the live entertainment industry, especially at international venues where audience expectations and event logistics are under greater scrutiny.
As of now, Neha Kakkar has not issued a further statement following the organizers’ rebuttal. Whether this row will escalate legally or resolve privately remains to be seen.
