Singer Kailash Kher has gone viral after refusing to sing on demand during a recent event in Delhi. The moment, captured on video, showed the singer objecting to a host’s request that he sing “two lines” for the audience. Instead of complying, Kher used the occasion to speak about the dignity of artists and performers.
‘Artists should not be treated casually.’
Responding to the request, Kher said singers are “sadhaks” and not “mood-makers,” stressing that music is a form of devotion and discipline rather than casual entertainment. He argued that artists should not be expected to perform instantly whenever asked.
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The singer compared the request to asking cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar to hit a six on command. “Sachin ko bologe ek chakka laga ke dikha?” he said, making the point that skilled professionals deserve respect for their craft.
Video gains attention online
The clip quickly spread across Instagram, drawing mixed reactions from viewers. Some supported Kher’s stance, saying performers are often taken for granted at public functions and corporate events. Others felt the singer could have handled the situation more lightly.
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One of the Instagram users shared in the post’s comment section, “ Ek din aisa aaiga jab koi nahi kahega log pyar karte hain apki kala ko apko sunna chahte hain isliye kehte hain , itna bura manne ki koi jarurat nahi .. jai siya ram” . “ Whether or not one agrees with this, it’s completely understandable as HIS perspective. Frankly, it makes complete sense. Singing requires an environment, a respectful audience, a mahaul, if you will. Springing a request upon someone will most likely yield a half asses rendition, esp in a hectic environment like this.” Says another user.
Conversation around respect for performers
The incident has reopened a larger conversation about how public figures, especially singers and musicians, are treated at live events. Casual requests for impromptu performances are common, but Kher’s remarks highlighted the effort, training and discipline behind every performance.
Known for songs such as Teri Deewani and Allah Ke Bande, Kher remains one of India’s most recognisable voices. His latest viral moment, however, came not from a song but from a reminder to respect art and the artist behind it.
