Udit Narayan Faces Backlash for Kissing Female Fans on Lips at Concert, Defends His Actions
Bollywood’s legendary playback singer Udit Narayan is back in the spotlight, but this time, not for his hit songs. The singer recently found himself at the center of a major controversy after a video from his concert went viral on social media. The video showed Udit Narayan interacting with female fans in a manner that sparked outrage online. Here’s what happened, and how Udit Narayan responded to the backlash.
What Happened at the Concert?
During a recent concert, Udit Narayan was performing his iconic track “Tip Tip Barsa Paani” from the movie Mohra (1994). As the fans gathered around the stage, the singer, who has a longstanding bond with his followers, leaned down to allow fans to take selfies with him. While this is a common interaction at many concerts, the situation took a controversial turn when Udit Narayan kissed several female fans on their cheeks. The most controversial moment came when, during a selfie with one female fan, Udit Narayan kissed her on the lips, shocking both the fan and viewers.
You can watch the video of the incident here:
Backlash from Fans and Netizens
Once the video surfaced, it didn’t take long for social media to explode. While some fans defended the singer, many others criticized him for his actions. The most prominent backlash came from those who argued that Udit Narayan, being a married man, should have shown more restraint, particularly in a public setting. The non-consensual kiss on the lips left a bad taste for many viewers, questioning whether the singer had crossed personal boundaries.
Critics voiced their concerns on social media, calling Udit Narayan’s actions inappropriate and disrespectful. The fact that the incident was caught on camera and went viral only fueled the outrage. Many felt that such behavior was unprofessional and unbecoming of a well-respected figure like Udit Narayan.
Udit Narayan’s Defense: “It’s Pure Affection”
In response to the backlash, Udit Narayan has staunchly defended his actions, stating that the kiss was not an act of sleaze, but a display of love and affection towards his fans. The singer explained that his gesture was purely innocent and driven by the immense bond he shares with his audience. He further stated that he had no regrets and felt no shame for his actions.
In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Udit Narayan said, “My heart is pure, and if some people see something dirty in my act of pure affection, then I feel sorry for them.” He continued, “Do you hear any regret or sorrow in my voice? In fact, I’m laughing as I talk to you. This is not something sleazy or secret.”
Despite the criticism, Udit Narayan seemed unfazed, even pointing out that the video was from a concert that took place months ago. He questioned the timing of its sudden viral spread, hinting at possible motives behind its resurfacing.
Udit Narayan’s Career and Achievements
In his defense, Udit Narayan also reminded the public of his extensive career, including his numerous awards and accolades. He highlighted his achievements, such as the Filmfare Awards, National Awards, Padma Shri, and Padma Bhushan. Udit stated that with such a legacy, he had no reason to behave inappropriately.
“I have achieved it all. I have the blessings of Mata Saraswati. When I have Lataji’s blessings, why would I care about what people say?” he said in an interview, referring to his long association with the legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar.
Public Reactions: A Divided Opinion
While Udit Narayan has maintained his position, the public remains divided. Some fans have supported his defense, claiming that it was simply an expression of his affection for his supporters. They argue that celebrities often have a close connection with their fans, and such gestures are not unusual in the entertainment industry.
On the other hand, critics continue to point out that boundaries are important, even in the world of fandom. Many feel that Udit Narayan, given his status and maturity, should have been more careful in his interactions. The fact that one of the kisses was non-consensual adds to the controversy, raising questions about respect for personal space.
Will This Controversy Affect Udit Narayan’s Career?
It’s still unclear whether this controversy will have any lasting impact on Udit Narayan’s career. While the criticism is significant, the singer’s established reputation and achievements may help him ride out the storm. He remains a beloved figure in Bollywood with a massive fan following, and his defense of his actions may even help him gain sympathy from his supporters.
At the end of the day, the incident highlights the complexities of celebrity culture and the expectations placed on public figures. While Udit Narayan may feel justified in his actions, the debate around personal boundaries and respect for fans continues to dominate social media.
- Image Credits: Concert