Sonu Nigam Says ‘Sorry Karnataka’ After Backlash Over Kannada Remark

Playback singer Sonu Nigam has issued a public apology to the people of Karnataka after facing a wave of criticism for his controversial remark during a recent concert. The singer, who was barred by the Kannada film industry following the incident, took to Instagram and wrote, “Sorry Karnataka. My love for you is bigger than my ego. Love you always.”

The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) had earlier announced a strict non-cooperation policy against Sonu Nigam, halting all professional collaborations with him. This decision came after his comments were perceived as offensive by sections of the Kannada-speaking community.

M. Narasimhalu, chairman of the KFCC, confirmed that the chamber unanimously agreed to boycott Nigam until he issued an unconditional apology. “No one will invite him to sing or perform here. We will reconvene in the next two or three days to assess further action,” he said.

The controversy erupted on May 1, during Sonu Nigam’s performance at East Point College in Virgonagar, Bengaluru. When an audience member requested him to sing a Kannada song, Nigam declined and, visibly displeased, remarked, “It is because of such behavior that incidents like the Pahalgam attack happen,” referring to a past terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. His comment sparked outrage and was seen as insensitive and divisive.

In response, a pro-Kannada group, the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV), filed a complaint accusing the singer of promoting linguistic discord. An FIR was registered at the Avalahalli Police Station. Following this, the Bengaluru Rural Police issued a notice to Sonu Nigam, directing him to appear before the investigating officer within a week.

Before posting his apology, Sonu Nigam had released an open letter online, saying he would leave the matter to the “sensible people of Karnataka” and accept their judgment with humility.

Meanwhile, the KFCC remains firm on its stand. “Our decision will not change unless he offers a sincere and unconditional public apology,” said Narasimhalu.

The incident has reignited conversations around language sensitivity and cultural respect in multilingual India. While some have supported the singer for expressing his frustration, others argue that public figures must be more mindful of their words, especially in diverse linguistic landscapes.

With Sonu Nigam’s apology now public, it remains to be seen whether the ban will be lifted and how the Kannada industry and its audience will respond.