Veteran playback singer Kumar Sanu has reflected on one of Bollywood’s most turbulent periods, recalling the alleged influence of organised crime on the Hindi film industry during the 1990s, writes Mid- day.
Speaking on Subhojit Ghosh’s podcast, the singer admitted he lived in fear as the industry grappled with the alleged underworld presence.
“I was scared because, at that time, something was going on. There was such a system,” Sanu said.
The celebrated singer revealed that he personally witnessed several incidents during that period, which left a lasting impression on him.
“A lot of things happened in front of my eyes, so I was scared,” he said.
Sanu explained that he chose to deal with the situation by remaining diplomatic.
According to him, he would occasionally receive requests to perform at events.
“I tried to reason with them. In return, they would ask for something—’Come and sing here.’ I went and sang. I had to do that,” he recalled.
With a smile, the singer added that the relationship eventually changed.
“Afterwards, when they became my fans, they would say, ‘If someone does anything to you, tell us; we’ll take care of it.’
I would say, ‘There is no need for you to look after me; I can take care of myself.'”
Apart from revisiting his past, Kumar Sanu has also been making headlines over his legal efforts to protect his personality and publicity rights.
Last year, the singer approached the Delhi High Court, seeking legal protection against the unauthorised commercial use of his name, voice and distinctive singing style.
One of India’s most successful playback singers, Kumar Sanu has entertained audiences for more than three decades with numerous chart-topping songs.
His extensive catalogue includes popular hits such as Jeeye Toh Jeeya Kaise, Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hai Dil Se, Dil Mera Churaya Kyun, Dil Kya Kare, Is Tarah Aashiqui Ka and Tum Dil Ki, among many others.
Kumar Sanu married Rita Bhattacharya in 1980, before rising to fame in Bollywood.
The couple separated in 1994.
In recent years, Rita publicly accused the singer of neglecting her and their children during their marriage, allegations that prompted Sanu to issue her a legal notice.
The singer was also previously linked to actor Kunickaa Sadanand.
In 2001, he married Saloni Bhattacharya, and the couple have two daughters.
