A controversy has stirred around singer Sunidhi Chauhan’s popular song "Beedi Jalaile", nearly two decades after its release, following a complaint that accused the track of promoting tobacco and alcohol in front of children.
The song, which featured in the 2006 film 'Omkara', has come under scrutiny ahead of Sunidhi Chauhan’s live concert in Goa scheduled for January 25. The issue surfaced after the South Goa District Child Protection Unit (CCU) issued a preventive advisory to the concert organisers, asking them to ensure that certain songs are not played during the event.
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Complaint and official advisory
The controversy began with a complaint filed by Chandigarh-based professor Dr. Pandit Rao Dharenwar. In his complaint, he argued that the lyrics of some songs sung by Sunidhi Chauhan could have a negative influence on children and young people.
Acting on the complaint, the district administration took a strict view. Officials said songs such as 'Beedi Jalaile' and 'Sharabi' directly or indirectly glorify the consumption of tobacco and alcohol. According to the administration, playing such songs at a concert attended by children and teenagers could impact their mental and moral development.
The South Goa District Child Protection Officer referred to Section 3(IV) of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, which places the physical, mental and emotional well-being of children above all else. Based on this provision, organisers have been instructed to ensure that songs allegedly promoting alcohol or tobacco are not performed at the concert.
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Social media debate
The advisory has triggered a heated debate on social media. While some users have supported the move, calling it necessary for safeguarding children, others have questioned the logic of raising objections to a fictional film song released nearly 20 years ago.
Many fans have argued that revisiting old Bollywood songs through a legal lens sets an uncomfortable precedent. Others feel that live performances should be mindful of mixed-age audiences. One commented on X (formerly Twitter), "A 2006 song creating controversy in 2026", Another wrote,"Sunidhi Chauhan will forever be iconic for that one song"
All eyes are now on Sunidhi Chauhan’s January 25 concert in Goa. Following the advisory, it remains to be seen whether the singer chooses to drop her popular numbers from the setlist or presents them in a modified form. As of now, there has been no official statement from the singer or her management on the issue.
