Mika Singh, one of the most celebrated playback singers of India, has carved an indelible mark in the music industry with his powerful voice, energetic stage presence and a slew of chart-topping hits. Over the last two decades, he has brought joy to millions, seamlessly blending traditional Punjabi beats with contemporary pop influences. Whether performing at grand weddings or electrifying concert stages across the world, Mika’s magnetic personality and versatile singing style continue to win hearts. A true showman, he stands tall among the legends of Indian music.
Despite his widespread popularity and a consistent track record of hit songs, Mika Singh has long distanced himself from the glitz of award ceremonies. Speaking candidly on a podcast, the singer revealed his deep disillusionment with the credibility of such events. Reflecting on a turning point around 2011, Mika explained that he had specifically requested organisers not to consider his songs for nominations. His reasoning was simple yet heartfelt: it was more painful to see genuinely successful songs overlooked in favor of others that hadn’t achieved the same popularity.
Recalling a particular incident from the 2013 Filmfare Awards, Mika expressed his disappointment over what he felt was an unfair decision. He referred to that year’s nominations where Sonu Nigam’s emotionally resonant track Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin from Agneepath lost out to Ayushmann Khurrana’s Paani Da Rang from Vicky Donor. While acknowledging Ayushmann’s talent and song success, Mika strongly felt that Sonu Nigam, a veteran with a legendary presence in the industry, deserved the honor. To him, this wasn’t just a matter of opinion but of respect.
Mika emphasised that when legends like Sonu Nigam are invited to such ceremonies, it’s essential they are treated with the dignity they’ve earned over years of contribution. He opines that calling them only to be overlooked amounts to humiliation and it would be better not to invite them at all if their work isn’t going to be fairly recognised.
His remarks shed light on a sentiment shared by many artists in the industry that awards don’t always reflect true merit. Do you agree?
