Sonu Nigam, a well-known Bollywood musician, has been officially banned from the Kannada film business after making a controversial remark at a recent private college event in Karnataka. The Kannada Film Chamber of Commerce formally notified the decision.
According to reports, Sonu Nigam was annoyed when a private college event crowd asked him to perform a Kannada song. He allegedly responded with the disparaging statement, “Kannada… Kannada… this is the reason the Pahalgam attack happened.” The statement sparked significant controversy in Karnataka.
Police Complaint Filed: The Avalahalli Police Station received a case after the event. As citizens, artists, and cultural institutions condemned Nigam’s comments as degrading to Kannada pride, the reaction grew more intense.
The Film Chamber voted to ban Sonu Nigam from the Kannada film business during an emergency meeting over which Film Chamber President Narasimhulu presided.
Speaking to the media, President Narasimhulu stated: “Sonu Nigam has not apologized to Kannadigas for his hurtful comment. Until he offers a public apology, the Kannada film industry will enforce a non-cooperation movement against him. He will remain banned from singing in Kannada films or participating in cultural programs here.”
Sonu Nigam is not allowed to sing in Kannada films, go to musical evenings, or appear at any public gatherings in the state, according to stringent restrictions issued by the Film Chamber. “If anyone invites or employs him in violation of this directive, we will take appropriate legal and organizational action,” Narasimhulu said.
The ban has received full support from other vital organizations in the Kannada film industry, such as allied associations under the Film Chamber.
