Bengaluru, May 5 (UNI) Renowned playback singer Sonu Nigam has issued an emotional and strongly worded open note after a recent incident during his concert in Karnataka, stating that he was "threatened" on stage in the name of language, despite his long-standing respect and contribution to Kannada music.
In a statement titled 'Namaskara', Nigam said he has always held the Kannada language, culture, and music in high regard, often giving it precedence over other languages, including Hindi. "There are 100s of videos circulating on social media as testimony. I have more than an hour of Kannada songs that I prepare for every concert when in Karnataka," he wrote.
Referring to the alleged disruption, Nigam said, "I am not a young lad to take humiliation from anyone. I am 51 years old... and am entitled to take offence from 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."
Nigam explained that he had politely asked the disruptors to let the concert proceed as planned and reminded them that every artiste has a pre-decided song list to coordinate with musicians and technicians. Despite his appeals, he said, a few individuals continued to cause a ruckus.
He also stated that the majority of the audience, including students and teachers, stood by him and cheered when he "schooled" the hecklers. "The matter got over and I sang in Kannada for more than an hour. It's all there on social media," he added.
Expressing his disapproval of hate in the name of language, caste or religion, Nigam invoked his patriotism and recent visit to Pahalgam, stating that he loathes divisive conduct.
"I leave it up to the sensible people of Karnataka to decide who is at fault here. I will accept your verdict gracefully," the singer wrote, adding that he has full faith in the state’s law enforcement agencies and would cooperate with any investigation.
Nigam concluded the note by reiterating his "divine love" for Karnataka and stated that he would continue to cherish it “with no malice whatsoever".
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