Popular rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh, known for chart-toppers like Angreji Beat, Brown Ran, and Kalaastar, has long been a subject of controversy for his lyrics, often accused of objectifying women. In a recent interview with The Times of India, the rapper addressed these allegations, defending his work and criticising the double standards in the industry.
Honey Singh acknowledged the ongoing criticism, stating, “I don’t give a s***, but I think I should answer this.” He pointed to lyrics by respected lyricists like Gulzar to highlight what he perceives as inconsistencies in the accusations against him. Referring to Gulzar’s famous song Beedi Jalaile, Singh questioned, “Where is a woman’s ‘jigar’ [heart]? To me, this feels misogynistic.” He continued by mentioning another line from the song, “Zuban pe laga namak ishq ka,” adding, “Why is he talking about a woman’s tongue? I’ve grown up hearing all this.”
The rapper, frustrated by being singled out, expressed his dissatisfaction with the way he has been portrayed. “Why am I the only one who is wrong? I did not speak up before, but today I am addressing these things. Earlier, I never responded, so people thought I was an easy target,” he explained, referring to how he was criticised without a public relations team to defend his image.
Singh also noted that people in the industry, and society at large, often maintain double standards. He referenced controversial songs from the past, such as Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai, to question why he faces harsher scrutiny than others. “Songs used to be different back then, and they were taken in that spirit. But why is only Honey Singh criticized, and you call others legends?” he said.
He went on to say that the issue reflects broader societal contradictions. “We are carrying dual personalities in today’s times. We are modernising, but at the same time, we still have backward thinking,” Singh added.
On the professional front, Honey Singh’s latest album Glory was released on August 26. Despite the controversies, Singh continues to enjoy a massive fan following across the globe, solidifying his status as one of India’s most successful rappers.