Renowned playback singer Sonu Nigam has issued an emotional apology to the people of Karnataka after facing backlash and legal trouble for his alleged remarks during a recent live concert in Bengaluru. Taking to Instagram on Tuesday, Sonu wrote, “Sorry, Karnataka. My Love for you, is bigger than my Ego. Love you always.” His statement comes days after the Bengaluru police filed an FIR against him, citing allegedly hurtful comments about the Kannadiga community.
The controversy stems from a musical event held in Bengaluru last month, during which Sonu reportedly refused to perform Kannada songs on being pressured by a group of fans. The incident, which was captured on video, triggered criticism from some sections of the public, eventually leading to a police complaint and an FIR lodged by the Avalahalli Police Station in Bengaluru Rural District.
In response to the ongoing row, Sonu Nigam had earlier clarified his stance via a public post. He expressed disappointment over being threatened on stage, saying, “I am not a young lad to take humiliation from anyone. I am 51 years old, in the second half of my life and am entitled to take offence for someone as young as my son threatening me directly in front of thousands in the name of language — that too Kannada, which is my second language when it comes to my work.”
He further elaborated that the disruption occurred right after his first song and that several attendees at the event were uncomfortable with the behavior of the individuals causing the disturbance.
Sonu’s apology has received an outpouring of support from fans and netizens alike. One user commented, “Karnataka, you’ve done very wrong to this person. He loves and respects Kannadigas so much that he apologised and clarified the situation multiple times.” Another wrote, “Sonu ji, your humility is truly inspiring. Sending you endless positive vibes.”
Others questioned whether the fans who disrupted the concert would apologise publicly, with some calling the backlash a “loss for the Karnataka industry.”
As per police directives, Sonu Nigam has been asked to appear for an investigation within a week. The case remains under review as public debate continues on the intersection of art, language, and regional sentiments.
Sources By Agencies
