Singer Sonu Nigam apologises to the people of Karnataka over remarks linked to the Pahalgam controversy, which resurfaced ahead of his Bengaluru concert scheduled for October 24. In a video message, he says he did not intend to hurt anyone and expresses regret for anything said “inadvertently” that may have caused pain. He reiterates that he values his long relationship with Kannada fans and does not want any misunderstanding to “taint” it.

The controversy traces back to April 2025 during a Bengaluru performance, when an audience member repeatedly asked him to sing a Kannada song. Nigam took offence at the manner of the request and, according to reports, made an association with the Pahalgam terror attack, prompting criticism for what many saw as an insensitive comparison. Ahead of the Bengaluru show, Karnataka Rakshana Vedike has objected to the event and urged police to deny permission, threatening protests if their demand is not addressed.

Across outlets, the focus remains on Nigam’s renewed apology and the lead-up to the concert, with outlets also noting the earlier trigger in 2025 and the continued pressure from pro-Kannada groups. No outlet reports that the concert has been cancelled, only ongoing calls for action.