Badshah pledges women's empowerment song, education for 50 underprivileged girls
Rapper Badshah pledged a women's empowerment track within four months amid legal scrutiny over his controversial song, Tateeree. He also promised to sponsor education for 50 underprivileged girls.
Rapper-singer Badshah has said he will produce a song on women's empowerment within four months. He also resolved to sponsor education for 50 underprivileged girls. The singer made the commitments during a hearing held by the National Commission for Women (NCW) on April 7 regarding his controversial song, Tateeree.
At the hearing, presided over by NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, the lyrics and presentation of Tateeree were deemed offensive to the dignity and decency of women. The Chairperson expressed regret over the harm caused and directed the involved parties to prevent any such incidents in the future.
Singer to sponsor education for 50 girls
Badshah, along with directors Joban Sandhu and Mahavir Singh, and producer Hiten, submitted an unconditional written apology. They expressed regret for the impact of the song on society.
Badshah also expressed his intention to work for the upliftment of women and society through positive contributions, in addition to his artistic commitment. He proposed sponsoring education for 50 economically underprivileged girls.
Badshah’s apology over controversial lyrics
In a video statement shared on Instagram, Badshah had earlier accepted that his song had caused hurt to many.
He emphasised his connection to Haryana, saying, "First of all, I want to say that I myself am from Haryana. Those who know me know that my language, food habits, lifestyle, my identity is from Haryana. I am a very proud Haryanvi. (sic)"
Clarifying his intentions, the rapper said, "I never intended to say such nonsense about any child or any woman from Haryana. I come from the hip-hop genre, where songs often demean the competition. This was never about any woman or child. Nor will I ever do that. I have always tried to take Haryana's culture and dialect with me as far as I can go, to the highest level I can reach. (sic)"
The song's video, featuring schoolgirls dancing, was flagged for containing objectionable and vulgar content targeting women.
The controversy prompted strong action by Haryana Police, who have removed 857 links related to the song across digital platforms, including YouTube and Instagram.