Ever since we broke the news of Mika Singh performing in Karachi, things have been topsy-turvy for the singer. After the news spread like wildfire, Singh got banned by the Federation of Western India Cine Employees, who also issued a warning for other artists who would work with the singer. Post-ban, Singh issued an apology and the ban was retracted.
READ: Mika Singh performs in Karachi amidst tension on borders
During a recent press conference where he addressed all concerns regarding the controversy, the singer was repeatedly asked why he made the decision to perform in Pakistan – being fully aware of the tensions between the two countries.
“This was a commitment signed long back. The timing was wrong that I went there as the decision on Article 370 has just been taken. I called the federation and told that this was by mistake. I apologise for the mistake. I got the visa so I went. If you get a visa, you would go too,” he said.
READ: Mika Singh’s Karachi performance sparks outrage
However, things heated up when the singer raised the question of why the press doesn’t question other artists who perform for the other country. “Nobody raises a voice when other artists perform. An attempt is being made to garner publicity in my name,” he said.
“Two months ago, singers Neha Kakkar and Atif Aslam performed in Pakistan. About four months ago, Sonu Nigam and Atif also performed. Why didn’t you say anything then?” he asked.
The singer also brought Hassan Ali’s name to the mix. “A certain Pakistani bowler just got married to an Indian girl in Dubai, and you are all congratulating them. You should stand in solidarity with us, rather than attacking us,” he said to the journalists present at the press conference.
On an ending note, the singer assured his fellow Indians that it was a mistake, which won’t happen again.