Kailash Kher believes that casually asking singers to perform a few lines at public events diminishes an artist's dignity. While it is common for hosts to make such requests to entertain the audience, the acclaimed singer refused one at a recent awards ceremony, emphasizing the need to respect musicians and their craft.
Kailash Kher says on-demand singing takes away dignity
The singer attended the seventh edition of the Six Sigma Leadership Summit in Healthcare at Taj Palace, Delhi, on April 25. During the event, the host invited him to sing a few lines, a request that left the singer visibly uncomfortable. Addressing the moment, Kailash said, “This is exactly what I want to change—this is something I deeply feel about. A singer and music should not be treated in a way where you just ask them to sing two lines and set the mood. That is very wrong. Please don’t make such a request.”
Kailash Kher compares request to asking Sachin Tendulkar to hit a six
Kher added, “Would you ever ask Sachin Tendulkar to just hit a six for you on the spot? No one does that. Or would you ask a soldier to take a position and fire a shot just like that? Please don’t do this. Don’t turn artists into clowns. Don’t reduce an artist to mere entertainment. A true artist is a seeker; they belong to their inner self.”
Kailash Kher’s remarks spark mixed reactions online
The celebrated singer's comments sparked a divided response on social media. While a section of users backed his viewpoint, others disagreed and criticized him. One user wrote, “If singing two lines can bring a smile on someone’s face, I think it’s alright.” Another commented, “He wouldn't have replied the same if it were a director, producer, a rich businessman (in whose weddings they sing), a star or any influential person who would've asked him to sing. He would have started singing instantly.” At the same time, supporters of the singer praised his stance, with reactions like “Powerful reply” and “Finally, someone said it.”
Kailash Kher’s musical journey and hit songs
Kailash Kher's big break came in 2003 with ‘Allah Ke Bande’ from ‘Waise Bhi Hota Hai Part II’. A year later, he teamed up with brothers Paresh and Naresh Kamath to form the band Kailasa. Their 2006 debut album featured ‘Teri Deewani’, which became immensely popular across India. Over the years, he has delivered several memorable tracks, including ‘Ya Rabba’ from ‘Salaam-e-Ishq: A Tribute to Love’, ‘Kaun Hain Voh’ from ‘Baahubali: The Beginning’, and ‘Jay Jaykara’ and ‘Jal Rahi Hai Chita’ from ‘Baahubali 2: The Conclusion’, among others.
