'Apologise to people of Karnataka': KFCC resolves to not cooperate with Sonu Nigam

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) in a press conference on Monday resolved to not cooperate with singer Sonu Nigam. This comes after Nigam linked the Pahalgam terror attacks with a Kannada song request from a fan in a recent concert in Bengaluru.

KFCC president M Narasimhalu demanded an apology from the singer at the press conference and said, “In a week’s time we will decide if we have to impose a lifetime ban on the singer.”

Additionally, the chamber has written to the commissioner saying the singer should not be engaged in any events and concerts until “he apologises to the people of Karnataka”.

The KFCC will meet audio labels, producers, directors and music directors from the Kannada film industry to further discuss the decision. “Pending projects will also have to be discontinued for the moment,” Narasimhalu added.

Music composer and director Sadhu Kokila told DH, “He (Nigam) could’ve handled this in a better way rather than making such absurd remarks. What is the connection between Pahalgam and a Kannada song request?”

“It is natural to ask for a Kannada song in Bengaluru just like how RCB fans cheer for their favourite team while watching the match. It’s the spirit of the people,” he said, also adding, “But he (Nigam) is very fond of Kannada.”

Sadhu Kokila, who is also the president of Karnataka Film Musicians Association, asserted that Nigam must apologise. “Nigam has a huge popularity here. Producers here are usually keen on getting him on board because it is easy to get big audio labels,” he added.

Nigam performed at East Point College, Virgonagar on April 25. In a video shared on social media, a student at the concert requested a Kannada song, the singer in response lashed out saying: “Kannada Kannada, this is why Pahalgam happened.” Nigam’s response has received wide criticism.