Singer Rahul Vaidya has publicly announced that he turned down a lucrative offer worth ₹50 lakh to perform at a wedding in Antalya, Turkey. The decision, he said, was based on his strong sense of national interest, especially in light of Turkey’s stance supporting Pakistan following India’s Operation Sindoor.
“Nation Comes First,” Says Rahul
Speaking to Bombay Times, Rahul emphasized that no amount of money or fame could come before his loyalty to India. “The offer was lucrative ₹50 lakh. But I told them no work, no money, and no fame is bigger than the interest of the country. They even offered me more, but it wasn’t about the money,” he explained. He also expressed his unwillingness to work in a country he believes doesn’t respect India, calling it a matter of principle.
Strong Words Against Spending in Turkey
The singer criticized the growing trend of hosting lavish Indian weddings in Turkey. “Indians spend so much money in Turkey and give them enormous business. We provide them with crores in revenue, and this is how they respond?” he questioned, urging Indians to reconsider supporting a country he perceives as unsupportive of Indian interests.
Rupali Ganguly Echoes the Sentiment
Rahul’s comments come shortly after television actress Rupali Ganguly also urged a boycott of Turkey. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Anupamaa star wrote, “Can we please cancel our bookings for Turkey. This is my request to all Indian celebs/influencers/travellers. This is the least we can do as Indians. #BoycottTurkey.”
Both celebrities have called on fellow Indians to take a stand through their travel and professional choices, reinforcing a growing sentiment of national solidarity in the entertainment industry.
