Indian playback singer Shreya Ghoshal has addressed the online debate surrounding her iconic song Chikni Chameli, clarifying that she is not embarrassed about the track but has become more selective about the kind of songs she records today.
The conversation resurfaced after the singer faced criticism online for earlier comments about avoiding “raunchy” songs in the present stage of her career. Ghoshal recently opened up about the issue during a podcast conversation with entrepreneur and content creator Raj Shamani.
Shreya Ghoshal Explains Her Changing Perspective
During the podcast, Ghoshal explained that after the success of Chikni Chameli, she was frequently approached with songs that she felt crossed the line into objectification. According to her, some lyrics made her uncomfortable enough that she chose to turn down those offers.
She recalled one particular instance when a composer friend pitched a song with lyrics she felt were overtly objectifying. Even thinking about those words made her uncomfortable, prompting her to decline the track.
Speaking about Chikni Chameli itself, the singer emphasised that the song had more artistic effort behind it than many people assume.
She said that the final version used in the film was actually toned down compared to earlier drafts. At the time she recorded the song, she admitted that she did not always fully understand the deeper implications of certain lyrics.
#Movies | ‘Not Embarrassed Of It’: Shreya Ghoshal ‘Won’t Record’ Songs Like Chikni Chameli Anymore https://t.co/nBaB3VoU09
— News18 (@CNNnews18) March 4, 2026
“I Will Always Own That Song”
Despite the controversy, Ghoshal made it clear that she does not regret recording the track. The song, which featured Katrina Kaif on screen in the film Agneepath, became one of the biggest Bollywood dance hits of the decade.
According to Ghoshal, once a song becomes massively popular, it becomes inseparable from the artist’s identity. She acknowledged that it continues to be performed at concerts and public events, sometimes even in front of children.
However, she also admitted that her perspective has evolved. Today, she tries to be more mindful about the lyrics she chooses to sing, especially considering how widely songs are consumed across age groups.
Addressing criticism about performing the song despite her comments about objectification, Ghoshal offered a straightforward response. She said she enjoys the song and believes it is musically strong, but she has simply chosen not to record similar songs going forward.
In her words, it is a song she will always have to live with, and she accepts that responsibility.
What Sparked the Online Backlash
The renewed debate around Chikni Chameli began after Ghoshal’s 2025 interview with comedian and host Lilly Singh.
During that conversation, the singer spoke about how her comfort level with certain types of lyrics has changed over the years. She explained that there is a thin line between sensual expression and objectification.
Her comments also touched on how unsettling it can feel when very young children sing lyrics they may not fully understand. The statement triggered mixed reactions online, with some users questioning why she still performs the song at concerts.
The singer’s latest clarification appears aimed at addressing that criticism directly.
A Career That Continues to Evolve
While debates around older songs resurface from time to time, Ghoshal remains one of the most respected voices in Indian music. Over the past two decades, she has built a career spanning multiple languages and genres, becoming a defining voice of modern Bollywood playback singing.
Recently, she released a new single titled Yahin Guzaar Doon in collaboration with composer Amaal Mallik.
The singer is also preparing for a major international concert series. Her upcoming The Unstoppable Tour will begin in April 2026 and will feature performances across several global cities.
The first announced stops include Manchester on April 10, 2026, and London on April 12, 2026, with additional international dates expected to be revealed soon.
Balancing Legacy and Responsibility
For artists like Shreya Ghoshal, balancing legacy hits with evolving personal values is not always straightforward. Songs that become cultural phenomena often follow singers throughout their careers, regardless of how their views may change over time.
By clarifying her stance, Ghoshal appears to be acknowledging both sides of that reality. She continues to embrace the music that shaped her career, while also setting new boundaries for the projects she chooses going forward.
In an industry where trends shift quickly and public scrutiny remains constant, that balance may be the most honest path forward.
