What’s happening: As Sonu Nigam’s large-format concert at SKICC Srinagar on Dal Lake approaches (Oct 26, 2025), a section of Kashmir’s social media is urging a boycott under #BoycottSonuNigamShow, citing his 2017 tweets on the Azaan/loudspeakers. In the backdrop, Kashmiri singer Qazi Touqeer’s “Tachar Show” in September was cancelled after event permissions were withheld, fueling debates about parity for local artists.
Key facts at a glance
- Sonu Nigam SKICC concert (organiser promo): NDTV Good Times is promoting this Event, an Oct 26 show on Dal Lake, with ticketing and lineup teasers across platforms.
- Qazi Touqeer’s show cancellation: Last Month in September university-auditorium show was pulled after authorities withheld clearance; it had already been rescheduled once and Qazi was disappointed and sad on the Cancelation.
- Why the boycott now: Resurfacing of 2017 “Azaan/loudspeaker” tweets by Sonu Nigam as in Picture above; perception among some users that the singer is insensitive to Muslim practices.
Background: the 2017 Azaan tweet row by Sonu Nigam
On April 17, 2017, Sonu Nigam posted a series of tweets complaining about being woken by Azaan and describing loudspeakers at places of worship as “forced religiousness.” The tweets triggered backlash across political and religious lines; he later deactivated his Twitter account and then Deleted the Tweets. Coverage at the time noted he mentioned temples and gurdwaras as well, stating the concern was about noise amplification, not one religion.
Qazi Touqeer’s “Tachar Show”: why it was cancelled
Reports and the artist’s own statements say authorities withheld permission close to showtime, citing administrative/security considerations. The event had already moved dates (Sept 14 → Sept 17) and later Cancelled and venues (campus → auditorium). The late cancellation caused financial loss and disappointment among fans and crews.
Human angle
Alhamdulillah,our recent tweet regarding the boycott of Sonu Nigam show in Srinagar is trending on social media, we are grateful to all of you for posting a boycott for this show,keep posting, don’t go there,if anyone has bought a ticket, cancel your ticket #BoycottSonuNigamShow pic.twitter.com/RkL7UYKnzg
— (@cagedwolfffx) October 21, 2025
For fans of Qazi or Sonu Nigam, there’s a tug-of-war between pride in hosting a star on Dal Lake and solidarity with a local favorite who couldn’t perform. For crews, late cancellations mean sunk costs. For residents, big shows near SKICC raise practical concerns—traffic, security, and social cohesion—especially when online debate turns heated.
Responsible attendance & safety
- Verify status on organiser/venue handles the morning of Oct 26 before heading out and there is a Possiblity that Show may get Cancelled.
- Authorities many Impose Additional Security and Expect traffic checks near SKICC. Arrive early; carry ID; follow local guidance.
- The Debate issues respectfully online without hurting someones religious Sentiments; avoid sharing unverified claims or old screenshots without context.
