'We are decent people': Udit Narayan on viral video controversy
What's the story
Veteran Bollywood singer Udit Narayan has landed in a controversy after a video of one of his concerts went viral.
The clip features the 69-year-old singer returning kisses from fans during a performance of Tip Tip Barsa Paani.
In one instance, he is seen kissing a female fan on the lips as she tries to kiss him on the cheek.
The incident has drawn widespread criticism online.
Singer's statement
'We're decent people': Narayan's response to the backlash
Responding to the backlash, Narayan told HT City, "Fans itne deewane hote hain... Hum log aise nahi hain, hum decent log hain. Some people show their love through this. Udaake kya karna hai ab iss cheez ko?"
"There are so many people in the crowd, and we have bodyguards present too. But fans think they are getting a chance to meet, so someone extends their hands for a handshake, some kiss the hands."
"Uspe itna dhyaan nahi dena chahiye."
Suggested conspiracy
Narayan hinted at ulterior motives behind the controversy
Narayan also hinted that there could be an ulterior motive behind the controversy.
He said, "My family's image is such that everyone wants (a controversy to happen) Aditya (son and singer) chup chaap rehta hai, controversy mein aata nahi hai."
"Many must feel that. There is madness when I am singing on stage, fans love me, I think let them be happy. Otherwise iss type ke log hum hain hi nahi. Humein bhi unko khush karna hota hai."
Image defense
Narayan defended his image in the industry
Addressing the particular incident of kissing a fan on the lips, Narayan called it a spur-of-the-moment thing.
"I have been in Bollywood for 46 years now, my image hasn't been such (that I forcefully kiss fans."
"In fact, I fold my hands when I see the love my fans shower on me, while on stage, I bow down, thinking phir aaj ka yeh waqt laut ke aaye na aaye."