The Kannada Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC) has taken a firm stand against singer Sonu Nigam for his controversial remarks about Kannadigas at a recent concert held at a private college, where Sonu linked a request to sing a Kannada song with the Pahalgam terror attack, triggering widespread outrage. His statement has been seen as an insult to Kannadigas and their cultural identity, defaming the community, portraying them as intolerant or violent, and deeply hurting public sentiment. In response, the Kannada film industry, led by senior voices, has stated a total non-cooperation movement, demanding an unconditional public apology from the singer.
Addressing the media on Monday, KFCC President Narasimhulu explained the Chamber’s delayed response to the controversy. “We were in Mumbai attending the WAVES event when the incident occurred." Speaking to CE, Narasimuhulu stated, "We initially remained silent, expecting Sonu Nigam to express regret and apologise. But he never once felt he had done anything wrong. Instead of remorse, he doubled down, calling the people who requested Kannada songs as ‘goondas’ in his clarification,” he said.
“This is not just about one comment—it’s about disrespecting Kannada and Kannadigas. We have decided to completely cut ties with him: no musical nights, no songs, no collaborations. We are also writing to all producers, audio companies, and event organisers—anyone connected with the industry—asking them not to engage him in any capacity,” he added.
Narasimhulu further stated that the Chamber will convene a wider industry meeting within the next three days, including representatives from audio companies and stakeholders. A permanent ban on Sonu Nigam’s participation in any Kannada cultural or cinematic activity is under serious discussion.
Echoing this sentiment, Music Directors’ Association Secretary Dharma Vish said the music community is united in its decision. “We’ve spoken to senior composers like Sadhu Kokila and V Harikrishna. Over ninety per cent of music directors and musicians support the non-cooperation movement. The decision to allow a singer to perform typically rests with the producer, director, and music director, but we’ve all agreed that until there is an unconditional apology, there will be no engagement with Sonu Nigam.”
Producers' Association President Umesh Banakar confirmed that the action being taken extends beyond the film industry. “Even if Sonu Nigam apologises, many feel he should not be welcomed back. We’ve received letters from several Karnataka-based associations and activists requesting us to send communications to schools, colleges, and public organisations advising them not to host him at any event. We are also considering writing to the police and the state government to ensure his presence in Karnataka is formally discouraged.”
KFCC officials concluded the press meet by reaffirming that until Sonu Nigam offers a clear and unconditional public apology to Kannadigas, the non-cooperation movement will stand strong and expand across the entire entertainment sector.
Meanwhile, Bengaluru police are likely to summon Sonu Nigam for questioning over his recent remarks about the Kannada language. A formal notice is expected to be issued soon, directing him to appear before the investigating officer.
