Actor-dancer Nora Fatehi on Wednesday addressed the controversy surrounding her song Sarke Chunar from the upcoming film KD - The Devil. She said she doesn't understand the Kannada language, in which the original song, Sarse Ninna, is composed, and added that she was unaware of the song's Hindi version, Sarke Chunar.
The song recently came under fire for its vulgar lyrics and choreography, with the Hindi version drawing sharp criticism online. The issue escalated to the point where the Information and Broadcasting Ministry assured in Parliament that a ban had been imposed on the track. Following the outrage, the makers removed the Hindi version from YouTube.
Nora shared a video message on Wednesday, responding to the controversy. In the caption, she distanced herself from the disputed 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 wrote, while also urging fans to stop circulating the track online.
“I’d also request everyone to stop sharing the song because you're just giving it a platform unnecessarily,” she added.
At the same time, the actor called out personal attacks directed at her amid the controversy. “On a side note, I see some of you guys trying to use this as an opportunity to attack my character. It’s unfortunate,” she said.
In the video, Nora said she had filmed the song three years ago in Kannada and had agreed to it as part of a major project.
“Hi guys, I just want to come on here to discuss this controversy regarding the song... first of all, I'm in the middle of grieving the loss of one of my closest friends. I haven't been able to see what's going on,” she said, adding that she recently became aware of the issue due to limited network access.
Clarifying her stance, she said, “I shot this song three years ago in a language called Kannada. When I said yes to it, it was part of a big film. It was with a big icon, Sanjay Dutt— who would say no to working with him? I thought it was a remake of an iconic song.”
She emphasised that she had no knowledge of the Hindi adaptation that later drew criticism.
The controversy began after the makers released the song in multiple languages, including in Hindi as Sarke Chunar. While the Kannada version did not initially draw the same level of scrutiny, the Hindi version was criticised for its suggestive lyrics and visuals.
Several celebrities and organisations, including Armaan Malik, the All India Cine Workers Association, and the National Human Rights Commission, condemned the song. Lyricist Raqueeb Alam also stated that he had warned of potential censorship issues.
Directed by Prem, KD - The Devil is slated for a theatrical release on April 30. Despite the ongoing controversy, the film remains on schedule.
