Bollywood playback singer Sonu Nigam has stirred major controversy in Karnataka after a comment he made during a recent concert in Bengaluru. The statement, which appeared to equate the Kannada language struggle with terrorism, has triggered widespread outrage among pro-Kannada activists, especially the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV).
What Sparked the Protest?
During his performance, Nigam paused to address a heckler—a student reportedly demanding a Kannada song—and expressed disapproval of the interruption. While he acknowledged his respect and affection for Karnataka and Kannada music, he added, “This is the reason behind the incident in Pahalgam. Please see who is standing before you. I love you guys.”
This mention of Pahalgam, the site of a recent terror attack, was interpreted by activists as a direct comparison between Kannada language activism and terrorism.
KRV’s Allegations
The Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV), a leading Kannada rights organization, lodged a formal police complaint in Bengaluru. According to their statement, Nigam’s remark amounted to “comparing Kannada and the Kannadigas’ language struggle to terrorism.”
KRV President Dharmaraj Gowda said, “His statements hurt the sentiments of crores of Kannadigas and risk inciting linguistic tensions.” The group is demanding a public apology and has threatened to block Nigam’s future concerts in the state.
Why Language Identity is So Sensitive in Karnataka
Language and cultural pride are core elements of Karnataka’s political and social movements. Activists have consistently opposed the perceived imposition of Hindi and have campaigned for Kannada language rights in education, administration, and entertainment.
Pro-Kannada groups like KRV view their efforts as a democratic assertion of cultural identity—not as separatism or aggression. Any comparison to violence or terrorism is viewed as a direct insult to their struggle.
Sonu Nigam’s Legacy in Kannada Music
Ironically, Sonu Nigam is deeply respected in the Kannada music industry. He gained immense popularity through hits in films like Mungaru Male, Milana, and Gaalipata. He has often praised Kannada audiences and said that his best musical work was in Kannada.
In the viral concert video, Nigam reiterated: “We come to Karnataka with great respect because you’ve accepted me as family.” He also said that he includes Kannada songs in his international performances out of gratitude.
What Are the Protesters Demanding?
KRV leaders insist that a mere clarification is not enough. They are demanding a public apology. Shwetha Mohan Gowda, President of KRV’s Women’s Wing, stated: “He must apologise for disrespecting Kannada and the Kannadiga people.”
Larger Concerns About Language Politics
KRV Secretary Arun Javagal drew parallels to past controversies involving perceived Hindi dominance. He referred to the backlash against AR Rahman’s Tamil-centric UK concert in 2017, questioning why Hindi audiences were offended when Kannada audiences show greater acceptance.
WHAT LARGER CONCERNS ARE ACTIVISTS RAISING?
KRV organisation secretary Arun Javagal framed the controversy in the context of ongoing language politics. He said, “Why compare Kannada with Pahalgam and terrorism? What is he trying to say? Our demand is that we want to save Kannada in Kannada Nadu. Who are these people who question our fight? It is, in fact, Hindi speakers trying to impose Hindi on Kannada Nadu. If a Kannada singer went to the Hindi heartland and sang a Kannada song, would they accept it? That’s the difference – the heart of a Kannadiga is always welcoming.”
“This is about cultural equity,” said Javagal. “When a Kannada artist sings in the Hindi heartland, they are not always welcomed. But we always embrace others. This kind of response from Sonu Nigam is deeply disappointing.”
What’s Next?
Unless Sonu Nigam publicly apologizes, KRV and other pro-Kannada groups have vowed to block his future performances in Karnataka. The controversy has also reopened broader debates about linguistic respect, cultural sensitivity, and unity in diversity.
This developing story continues to highlight the fragile balance between national integration and regional identity—a topic that remains central to India’s complex federal structure.
