Indian rapper and singer Badshah has recently been in the news for multiple reasons related to his Haryanvi song “Tateeree.” Originally drawing attention for being a successful musical project, this song is now mired in controversy based on several comments about the lyrical content of the piece by various individuals and groups.
Here is a timeline of how the controversy began and how it has continued to garner major news media coverage.
How the controversy started
The controversy surrounding Badshah’s song began shortly after he released “Tateeree” at the beginning of March, with people quickly beginning to see the video and tweet about it. Specifically, many individuals’ and groups’ complaints expressed concerns regarding the song’s lyrics and the visuals of the video overall being inappropriate and derogatory towards women.
The complaints made about Badshah’s song were soon directed toward the Haryana State Commission for Women (HSCW), which took its own actions by issuing him a notice to explain to them the intent and content of the song. As the HSCW responded to the complaints made towards Badshah’s song, the controversy began to escalate through social media, with some individuals and organizations alleging that the rapper was promoting immorality through his song.
Legal trouble begins
In response to increasing criticism of his song, the controversy transitioned from online argumentation to formal action. An FIR was filed with the Haryana police under allegations that the song contained vulgar imagery and inappropriate depiction of women. Badshah was called before the Haryana women’s commission to discuss the lyrics of his song; however, when he did not comply with their request to appear in person, citing “professional obligations” as the reason for not appearing at the hearing, the commission was very upset and requested severe action against the rapper.
Later, the commission ordered police to arrest Badshah and recommended that he be banned from performing in public, further aggravating the situation.
Badshah’s response and apology
Badshah issued a public apology for the uproar around the controversy and deleted the song from all major music platforms. In his statement made in his apology, he explained that he never intended to offend anyone, and requested that people forgive him if his song offended anyone. Despite his apology to his fans for his actions, he still had to endure more legal challenges and public debate.
The controversy takes a darker turn
A sudden shift has occurred as reports surfaced that those connected to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang issued a death threat against Badshah via social media. The text reportedly said that the rapper is causing harm to the culture of Haryana and “we will shoot him in the forehead.”
With this news, it brings a whole new level of danger to an already commenced bout of musical disagreements.
Where things stand now
Badshah is still dealing with many issues, including legal battles with the state government, public outcry, and now serious concern for his own safety. The complaints lodged against his song are currently still being reviewed by the Haryana Government, as the Lawrence Bishnoi update raises the level of concern for their safety.
This incident has also ignited a larger discussion regarding freedom of expression, being accountable for what you say in your music, and how much pressure the popular public figures are under today due to social media’s rise.
