Shreya Ghoshal Opens Up About Turning Down ‘Fevicol Se’ from Dabangg 2: “It Had Too Much Objectification”
One of India’s most renowned playback singers, Shreya Ghoshal, recently shared her reasons for declining to sing the popular item number “Fevicol Se” from the 2012 film Dabangg 2. In a candid conversation with entrepreneur and podcast host Raj Shamani, Ghoshal expressed her discomfort with the song’s lyrics, which she felt were excessively objectifying. Her decision has reignited discussions about the portrayal of women in Bollywood music, particularly in item songs.
Shreya Ghoshal’s Refusal to Sing
During her conversation, Ghoshal reflected on the moment she chose to step away from the project. She described the lyrics of “Fevicol Se” as lacking subtlety and being overtly objectifying. Ghoshal stated, “There was a song in that film, which had too much objectification. It was not subtle – it was like ‘chicken bana ke khale aur yeh karke lipat le’ – I cannot say these words. It just makes me feel red on the face. I cannot do it.” Her decision to refuse the song highlights her personal boundaries regarding the themes she is willing to engage with in her music.
Despite her refusal, “Fevicol Se” became one of the most recognized tracks from *Dabangg 2*, featuring actress Kareena Kapoor Khan in a special appearance. Ghoshal’s comments have sparked renewed conversations about the nature of lyrics in Bollywood, especially in songs categorized as “item numbers.” The ongoing debate raises questions about the impact of such lyrics on societal perceptions of women.
The Broader Conversation on Objectification
Ghoshal’s remarks contribute to a larger discourse surrounding the objectification of women in the entertainment industry. Over the years, many voices from within Bollywood and beyond have expressed concerns about songs that utilize suggestive or degrading language. Critics argue that these tracks perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to the objectification of female characters. Conversely, some defend the inclusion of such songs as part of the commercial cinema’s entertainment format.
This ongoing debate underscores the challenges artists face when navigating their careers in an industry that often prioritizes commercial success over social responsibility. Ghoshal’s decision to decline “Fevicol Se” reflects her commitment to her principles, even as she remains a prominent figure in the music industry.
Shreya Ghoshal’s Career and Influence
Shreya Ghoshal’s career spans over two decades, during which she has established herself as one of the most successful playback singers in India. Known for her versatility and expressive vocal range, she has recorded songs in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam. Her extensive body of work includes numerous chart-topping hits and collaborations with some of the country’s leading composers and filmmakers.
Despite her success, Ghoshal’s recent revelation about declining “Fevicol Se” offers insight into the personal choices artists make regarding their work. While playback singers often record tracks written and composed by others, many, like Ghoshal, draw lines based on their comfort levels with specific themes or lyrics. Her principled stance serves as a reminder of the importance of artistic integrity in the face of commercial pressures.
As Ghoshal continues to be one of the most sought-after singers in the industry, her commitment to her values resonates with many fans and fellow artists alike. Her decision not to participate in projects that conflict with her beliefs highlights the ongoing need for dialogue about the representation of women in music and film.
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