Renowned playback singer Shreya Ghoshal recently found herself at the center of online debate after stating that she would no longer record so-called “raunchy” songs like Chikni Chameli. Her remarks, made during a podcast conversation with Raj Shamani, sparked criticism from some social media users who accused her of hypocrisy for continuing to perform the popular track at concerts. Addressing the backlash, Shreya has now clarified that she is not embarrassed about the song but has grown more conscious about the kind of music she chooses to lend her voice to today.
During the podcast, Shreya reflected on how her perspective has evolved over time. She revealed that after the success of Chikni Chameli, she was offered multiple tracks with overtly objectifying lyrics. According to her, one composer friend even presented her with a song featuring unsubtle and explicit metaphors that made her uncomfortable. She explained that simply reading those lyrics made her blush, and she declined the offer. This experience, she said, marked a turning point in her approach to selecting songs. While she acknowledged that sensuality and artistry can coexist in music, she emphasized that there is a fine line between being expressive and crossing into objectification.
Speaking specifically about Chikni Chameli, Shreya defended the track’s artistic merit. She noted that the final version used in the film was actually more toned down than its original drafts, though it still carried suggestive undertones. At the time of recording, she admitted she did not fully grasp the implications of certain lyrics. She described herself as less mature back then, explaining that she sometimes sang lines without deeply analyzing their meanings. Over time, however, she has become more attentive to lyrical nuance and the broader impact of her songs.
One of the primary reasons for this shift, she shared, is her experience performing live. As a singer with a multigenerational fan base, Shreya frequently encounters children at her concerts. She expressed discomfort when very young girls sing along to lyrics without understanding their meaning. She recalled moments when children as young as five or six approached her to perform such songs, leaving her feeling uneasy. While she does not deny or disown the track, she acknowledged that performing it in front of young audiences can be awkward. Sometimes, she said candidly, she closes her eyes while singing it.
When confronted with accusations of hypocrisy — particularly from Reddit users who questioned why she still performs the song if she no longer wishes to record similar tracks — Shreya stood firm. She clarified that she likes Chikni Chameli and is not ashamed of having sung it. However, she stressed that personal growth means reassessing future choices. “It’s my song. I’ve owned it,” she said, explaining that she cannot erase a part of her career, but she can choose differently moving forward.
In a separate conversation with Lilly Singh in 2025, Shreya reiterated this viewpoint. She highlighted the distinction between sensuality and outright objectification, emphasizing that her current priority is ensuring that her music aligns with her values. For her, being mindful of lyrics is not about regret but responsibility.
Professionally, Shreya continues to remain active in the music industry. She recently lent her voice to Yahin Guzaar Doon alongside Amaal Mallik, with a music video featuring Farrhana Bhatt. Additionally, she has announced her The Unstoppable World Tour, with performances planned across the UK, USA, India, and Abu Dhabi, though specific dates are yet to be revealed.
Through her recent statements, Shreya Ghoshal has underscored that artistic evolution is a natural part of a long career. While she embraces her past work, she is equally clear about shaping a future that reflects greater awareness and intention.