TV
Veteran playback singer Udit Narayan has sparked fresh criticism after doubling down on his defence of kissing female fans during concerts, calling it an “act of pure affection.” The controversy erupted after a video from a months-old performance went viral, showing the 68-year-old singer kissing women on the cheeks and one fan on the lips while taking selfies during his song ‘Tip Tip Barsa Paani’.
In the clip, Narayan is seen pulling a fan closer by her neck during a selfie. However, as she attempts to kiss his cheek, he turns his face, kissing her lips instead, leaving her visibly startled. The video went viral recently and drew outrage online, with critics calling the act non-consensual and inappropriate.
Defending his actions, Narayan claimed the gestures were an act of "pure affection" towards his fans in an interview with Bollywood Hungama.
Further, he expressed that he felt no embarrassment and also added “There is a deep, pure, and unbreakable bond between my fans and I. They love me, and I love them back even more.” Moreover, he also emphasized that his actions were not sleazy and were out in the public domain.
In an earlier statement to Hindustan Times, Narayan mentioned that fan enthusiasm often leads to such interactions, saying, “Fans itne deewane hote hain. Some extend their hands for a handshake, some kiss the hands. Yeh sab deewangi hoti hai.”
Despite his defences, the video has angered many. Online comments have even turned him "creepy" and said his explanations are beyond justification.
“Everything that happened in that clip was beyond justification,” commented a social media user. “Fan inke deewane, yeh fans ke deewane too much fun,” added another.
