Sonu Nigam posted a cryptic message on Instagram following IIFA 2025 in Jaipur, hinting at discontent with the awards after he was overlooked for a nomination. The nominees included prominent artists like Arijit Singh and Jubin Nautiyal, who won for “Dua” from Article 370. Nigam’s caption implied disappointment, acknowledging bureaucratic influence in awards. His frustrations were echoed by fans and fellow musicians like Amaal Malik and Jaan Kumar Sanu, who expressed support. Nigam’s dissatisfaction stems from expectations for his song “Mere Dholna 3.0” and previous incidents with politicians leaving his performances early, underscoring his ongoing grievances with the music industry.
New Delhi:
Just days after the conclusion of IIFA 2025 in Jaipur, Rajasthan (March 8 and 9), Sonu Nigam posted a cryptic message on his Instagram, seemingly criticizing the Awards authority. He shared a screenshot of this year’s nominees, which featured artists like Arijit Singh, Karan Aujla, Diljit Dosanjh, Baadshah, Jubin Nautiyal, and Mitraz. Ultimately, Jubin Nautiyal took home the award for Dua from Article 370.
Noting his own absence from this year’s nominations, Sonu Nigam captioned the post, “Thank you IIFA… After all, you were accountable to the Rajasthan bureaucracy.” He received support from fellow artists and fans alike.
Amaal Malik commented, “Such is the world we live in…. Mazaak banake rakh diya hai (It has just turned into a mockery).” Jaan Kumar Sanu, son of Kumar Sanu, added, “Dada you are above these awards to be honest. We all love you.” One fan stated, “You’ve long surpassed these trivial awards!”
Sonu Nigam’s disappointment is clear, particularly as he was expecting a nomination for his song Mere Dholna 3.0 from Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Shreya Ghoshal won the Best Female Singer award for her performance of the song.
His reaction can be viewed in light of an incident where Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma left his concert prematurely last December.
During the Rising Rajasthan event (December 9), several political figures exited his performance before it concluded. Expressing his dissatisfaction, Sonu Nigam urged politicians to refrain from attending events if they cannot stay for the entirety of the performance.
Sonu Nigam recently performed at Rashtrapati Bhavan after enduring severe muscle spasms.