Singer Shreya Ghoshal recently discussed her experience with performing songs labeled as 'raunchy,' like Chikni Chameli, and mentioned she would refrain from recording such tracks in the future. Her comments sparked criticism on social media. In response to the backlash, the singer clarified that she does not regret singing Chikni Chameli but has become more selective about the songs she decides to record.
Shreya Ghoshal states she feels no shame about Chikni Chameli
During a recent podcast with Raj Shamani, Shreya mentioned that following the release of Chikni Chameli, she received offers for songs that she found objectifying, which she chose not to record. She disclosed that a composer friend once presented her with a song containing blatantly objectifying and unsubtle lyrics like “make me into chicken and eat me” or “hold me like this.” She stated that she turned down the track because just the thought of those words made her blush.
Discussing Chikni Chameli, she remarked, "The song is more than just an entertaining piece; it contains a significant amount of artistry. There were also more subdued versions. The version that ultimately made it into the film was more understated than the initial drafts, yet it remained suggestive. Back then, I didn't always comprehend the lyrics I was singing. I wasn't mature enough to completely understand the meaning of some lines."
She mentioned that she is now more cautious about the songs she records because if one becomes popular, she has to perform it in various places, including in front of children, which can make her uneasy.
When Raj mentioned that she received criticism for discussing objectification while still performing the song at concerts, Shreya explained that she is not ashamed of it. She stated, 'Yes, I did perform it. I like that song. I think it’s good. But I won’t record songs like that anymore. I’m not embarrassed. I sang that song at that time. It’s one song I will always have to live with, where even children in the audience may dance to it. Sometimes I close my eyes. But I cannot disown it. It’s my song. I’ve owned it.'.
Reasons for the criticism faced by Shreya Ghoshal
In a 2025 conversation with Lilly Singh, Shreya confessed to having performed some provocative songs in her career, such as Chikni Chameli, which she would refrain from singing today. She explained, “There is a delicate balance between being sensual, sexy, and being blatantly objectified, or objectifying women in general. I've become more aware over time because I notice young girls singing these songs without grasping their meaning. They’re simply dancing to them, and they approach me saying, ‘Oh, we love your song! Can we sing it for you?’ and I feel quite embarrassed. A young girl, just five or six years old, singing those lyrics, it doesn’t seem appropriate.”
Nevertheless, Reddit users mocked her for claiming she no longer wished to sing those songs while continuing to perform them at events. Some even called her a hypocrite.
Regarding the latest projects of Shreya Ghoshal
Shreya Ghoshal has recently provided her vocals for the song Yahin Guzaar Doon, in collaboration with Amaal Mallik, with Farrhana Bhatt appearing in the video. Additionally, the singer has unveiled her The Unstoppable World Tour, which will include shows in the UK, USA, India, and Abu Dhabi. The specific dates have not been announced yet.
