Udit Narayan backlash: Why is the Indian singer under fire?

Dubai: Seasoned Bollywood playback singer Udit Narayan recently found himself at the center of a heated debate after a viral video from one of his international concerts sparked controversy.

Known for his romantic hits, the veteran singer faced backlash over his interaction with a female fan during a recent show.

The incident, captured on video and widely circulated on social media, shows a female admirer approaching the stage for a selfie while Narayan was performing Tip Tip Barsa Pani.

Initially, he placed a kiss on her cheek, but then unexpectedly kissed her on the lips. The moment left audiences stunned, igniting a wave of reactions online.

The video quickly triggered heated discussions, with fans and critics expressing their opinions. While some were shocked and disappointed, others speculated that the clip might be AI-generated.

Adding to the debate was the reaction of the female fan involved—she did not appear uncomfortable, which left many confused. One person remarked, "It’s unsettling that he would randomly kiss someone like that, but what’s even stranger is that these women seem to be willingly engaging in it."

Amid the growing backlash, Udit Narayan has now addressed the controversy, standing by his actions and refusing to issue an apology. "I am not at all embarrassed or ashamed," he stated. He also urged people not to misinterpret the moment, urging everyone not to colour that incident with such tainted strokes. He downplayed the episode.

His response has further divided opinions. While some supporters argue that the interaction was harmless and blown out of proportion, others insist that public figures must be more mindful of personal boundaries, particularly in today’s social climate.

Despite Narayan’s firm stance, the controversy continues to spark discussions about consent, boundaries, and celebrity behavior in public interactions.