Despite Apology, Sonu Nigam’s Song Removed From Kannada Film Over Controversial Comment

The makers of the upcoming Kannada film 'Kuladalli Keelyavudo' announced the removal of a song originally sung by Sonu Nigam from their film.

In an official statement shared with the publication, the team expressed disappointment over the singer’s remarks

Source : Instagram/@sonunigamofficial

Singer Sonu Nigam has found himself at the centre of a growing controversy following his recent concert in Bengaluru on April 25. A video from the event went viral, drawing sharp criticism from Kannada-speaking audiences and the film fraternity in Karnataka. The clip in question shows Sonu allegedly refusing to sing a Kannada song and referring to the Pahalgam terror attack, a comment that didn’t sit well with many. Although Sonu later addressed the issue and issued a public apology to the people of Karnataka, the controversy shows no signs of dying down.

Sonu Nigam's song from Kannada film removed

According to News18, the makers of the upcoming Kannada film 'Kuladalli Keelyavudo' announced the removal of a song originally sung by Sonu Nigam from their film. In an official statement shared with the publication, the team expressed disappointment over the singer’s remarks

“There is no doubt that Sonu Nigam is a good singer. But, we are very upset by how he spoke about Kannada recently at a concert. We cannot tolerate the insult Sonu Nigam has done to Kannada, so we have removed the song," the statement read.

The song, 'Manasu Haadtade', composed by Manomurthy and penned by celebrated lyricist Yogaraj Bhat, had received positive responses after its release about a month ago. Despite still being available on Sonu Nigam’s YouTube channel, the film's team has now decided to re-record the track with singer Chethan stepping in as the new voice. Producer Santosh Kumar also confirmed that he won’t be working with Sonu in any future ventures.

Sonu Nigam controversy

During the Bengaluru performance, a student in the audience repeatedly requested Sonu to sing in Kannada. In response, Sonu was caught on video saying, “He was so rudely threatening me, Kannada, Kannada. This is the reason for what happened in Pahalgam.” The remark, which many interpreted as insensitive and dismissive, triggered widespread outrage, particularly among Kannadigas.

The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has since advised members of the industry to distance themselves from the singer. Meanwhile, a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed against him at the Avalahalli Police Station in Bengaluru for allegedly linking the audience's request to the Pahalgam incident.

Attempting to clarify his stance and extend an olive branch, Sonu later posted an apology on Instagram. He wrote, “Sorry Karnataka. My love for you, is bigger than my ego. Love you always.”