The highly anticipated musical evening featuring Bollywood playback singer Sonu Nigam in Srinagar turned out to be a subdued affair, with noticeably sparse attendance at the SKICC auditorium on Saturday. The event, which was expected to draw large crowds, saw many seats remain empty despite the singer's popularity.
Sources familiar with the situation suggest that the low turnout might be connected to the recent resurgence of Nigam's 2017 comments about the Azaan, the Islamic call to prayer. The singer had previously expressed discomfort with the early morning loudspeaker announcements, sparking widespread debate at the time.
Mixed Reactions Among Attendees
Those who did attend the concert expressed divided opinions about the controversy. "We came for the music, not the politics," said one audience member who identified himself as a college student. "Art should be separate from personal views."
However, another attendee noted: "In Kashmir, religious sentiments run deep. When an artist makes comments about religious practices, people remember."
Organizers Remain Optimistic
Despite the underwhelming response, event organizers appeared positive about the overall outcome. "The show must go on," stated one organizer, who preferred to remain anonymous. "We're happy to bring cultural events back to Kashmir, and we believe this is just the beginning of more entertainment opportunities in the region."
The concert featured some of Nigam's biggest Bollywood hits, including songs from classic films that have been popular in Kashmir for decades. Those present enthusiastically cheered and sang along to familiar tunes, creating an intimate atmosphere despite the small crowd.
A Pattern of Controversy
This isn't the first time Nigam's comments have affected his professional engagements. The singer has previously faced backlash and concert cancellations in various parts of India following his remarks about religious practices.
The situation highlights the continuing challenge of navigating religious sensitivities in the culturally diverse landscape of India, particularly in regions like Kashmir where religious identity plays a significant role in daily life.
As cultural events gradually return to the Kashmir Valley after years of disruption, the mixed response to Nigam's concert serves as a reminder that artists operating in this sensitive region must balance artistic expression with cultural and religious considerations.
