Mumbai: Actor and dancer Nora Fatehi has responded to the controversy surrounding the song “Sarke Chunar”, which recently sparked widespread backlash on social media and led to its removal from online platforms. The actor clarified that she had no knowledge of the Hindi version of the track and distanced herself from the content that triggered the outrage.
The controversy erupted after the song, reportedly part of the upcoming Kannada film KD – The Devil, faced criticism for allegedly containing objectionable content. Following mounting public criticism and legal pressure, the video was taken down from YouTube.
In a video message shared on social media, Nora Fatehi expressed relief that the song had been removed and urged people to stop circulating it online.
Actor says she had no knowledge of Hindi version
Addressing the controversy, Nora Fatehi stated that she was unaware of the Hindi lyrics associated with the controversial version of the song.
“I would hate for anyone to think I endorse this. Thank you for the backlash because of this pressure the filmmakers have luckily taken it down,” she said in her statement.
The actor also appealed to the public not to continue sharing the video, as doing so would only give the content unnecessary attention.
“I’d also request everyone to stop sharing the song because you are just giving it a platform unnecessarily,” she added.
Her statement comes after days of criticism and debates across social media platforms regarding the song’s lyrics and presentation.
Song reportedly filmed years ago
Reports indicate that Nora Fatehi had filmed the dance sequence nearly three years ago, long before the current controversy surfaced.
Sources suggest that the song was later modified or released with a Hindi version that drew criticism from various quarters.
Nora emphasised that she had not performed to the controversial Hindi lyrics and had not granted permission for her image to be used with that version of the song.
“I do want to reiterate I had no idea about this Hindi song. I did not perform to it and there was no permission taken to use it with my image,” she said.
The actor also noted that her team would exercise greater caution in the future while reviewing projects and promotional materials associated with her work.
Actor responds to personal criticism
Alongside the controversy over the song, Nora Fatehi said she had noticed attempts by some individuals to question her character.
Responding to such remarks, the actor said it was unfortunate that the situation was being used to target her personally.
“On a side note I see some of you trying to use this as an opportunity to attack my character. It’s unfortunate,” she said.
She reiterated that she and her team would be more careful in handling such situations going forward to avoid similar controversies.
Government confirms ban on song
The issue also reached Parliament, where Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that the song had been formally banned.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, the minister stated that freedom of expression has limits when content violates cultural decency.
“Freedom of speech cannot be absolute when it violates cultural decency,” he said while confirming that action had been taken against the track.
Following the ban, the original version of the video has been disabled on YouTube and other platforms.
Makers plan ‘sanitised’ version
Despite the controversy, the makers of the film are reportedly preparing to release a revised version of the song.
According to reports, a “sanitised” version with entirely new lyrics is expected to be released as part of damage control efforts.
The revised track is likely to replace the controversial elements that triggered public backlash.
Industry observers say the move aims to protect the film’s promotional campaign ahead of its theatrical release.
About the film ‘KD – The Devil’
KD – The Devil is an upcoming Kannada-language period action drama directed by filmmaker Prem.
The film has attracted attention for its large-scale production and action sequences set in a gritty historical backdrop.
With its release scheduled for April 30, the makers have been actively promoting the film across different platforms.
However, the controversy surrounding the song has temporarily overshadowed the film’s promotional campaign.
Growing scrutiny of film songs
The incident reflects increasing public scrutiny of film songs and promotional content in the digital era.
With social media amplifying public reactions, controversies surrounding film content can escalate rapidly and attract regulatory attention.
Experts say filmmakers and production houses are now expected to exercise greater caution while releasing promotional material, especially when it involves sensitive cultural themes.
Conclusion
Nora Fatehi’s response to the “Sarke Chunar” controversy marks the first time the actor has publicly addressed the issue. While distancing herself from the song’s controversial Hindi version, she welcomed the decision to remove the track and urged audiences not to share it further.
As the filmmakers prepare to release a revised version of the song, the episode highlights the challenges faced by the entertainment industry in balancing creative expression with cultural sensitivities in a highly connected digital landscape.