Row over outfits at Sunidhi Chauhan’s Surat concert:Bajrang Dal says ‘cultural violation’ before families; organisers call it a pass-related drama

A controversy has erupted over the stage performance and dancers’ outfits at Bollywood singer Sunidhi Chauhan’s live concert in Surat’s Pal area after videos from the event went viral on social media, prompting the Bajrang Dal to protest and demand action against those responsible, while organisers termed the protest baseless. Bajrang Dal coordinator Abhishek Rajput said, “The erosion of culture in front of families will not be tolerated,” while the organiser said, “The drama was created because passes were not provided.” ‘I Am Home Coming’ Tour Begins with an Entrance from 30 Feet Above Bollywood singer Sunidhi Chauhan launched her ‘I Am Home Coming’ India tour at Grand Ferohar in Pal, Surat. The concert began with Sunidhi’s unique entrance, as she descended onto the stage seated on a chair suspended between cables approximately 30 feet above the ground. She was joined by a 15-member dance crew, a beatboxer and a music band. Sunidhi energised the fans by saying, “Let me sing today,” and delivered a power-packed performance on hit songs such as ‘Dance Pe Chance’. She also changed her outfit twice during the programme. Bajrang Dal enraged over dancers’ clothes After videos of the concert went viral, Abhishek Rajput, coordinator of the Surat East division of the Bajrang Dal, said that it had come to their attention that appropriate standards of dress had not been maintained during Sunidhi Chauhan’s recently held live concert. He said they did not oppose any artist or art, but that appropriate standards of dress were necessary at cultural and family events such as live concerts, where women, young people and small children were present. ‘Appropriate dress limits should be set for artists’ He further said that, in accordance with Indian culture, attire should be appropriate and a family-friendly atmosphere should be maintained at events. To ensure that Western culture and its influence do not affect Indian society, it is essential to keep in mind the tradition and limits governing Indian women’s attire. Regarding further action, he said he would speak to the event organisers and explain the matter to them. He will appeal to the organisers to set appropriate dress limits for artists when organising any such event in the future. ‘The freedom to choose what to wear is personal; the controversy arose because they did not receive passes’ Ajesh Kumar of Sachi Events, the organiser of the event, has strongly hit back at the allegations made by the Bajrang Dal. He said that every citizen in India has the freedom to wear clothing of their choice. The law does not prescribe any dress code. Sunidhi Chauhan has previously performed across the country, including in Surat and Ahmedabad, in similar outfits. Those who did not receive free passes for the programme are deliberately creating this kind of drama on social media and turning it into an issue.