After backlash over ‘Tettiri’, Badshah says “Please forgive me”

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu) – Rapper and singer Badshah has publicly apologized for the controversy surrounding the lyrics and visuals of his new Haryanvi track "Tettiri." In a video released on social media, Badshah stated that a portion of the song hurt the sentiments of many people, especially those from Haryana. He clarified that he did not intend to offend anyone or say anything negative about any child or woman. In a video posted on Instagram, Badshah said, "Hello friends, I'm Badshah. My new song 'Tettiri' has been released, and I see that the message conveyed by my lyrics and visuals in a portion of it has hurt many people, especially those from my own hometown of Haryana. First of all, I want to say that I myself am from Haryana. My dialect, food habits, lifestyle, and identity are all connected to Haryana. I proudly say that I am a Haryanvi."

He continued, "In the hip-hop genre, lyrics are often used to belittle a rival. This was never directed at any woman or child, nor would I ever do so. I have always strived to elevate Haryana's culture and dialect, but if I offended anyone, I sincerely apologize. I hope you will forgive me, considering me a son of Haryana, your own son."

The song was released on March 1, 2026, featuring Badshah and Simran Jaglan. Composed in a Haryanvi hip-hop style, the track received widespread criticism on social media for some of its lyrics and the visuals of girls in school uniforms. Many deemed it offensive, vulgar, and disrespectful to women.

The Haryana State Women's Commission has taken cognizance of the matter and issued a summons to Badshah. A case has been registered against him at the Cyber Crime Police Station in Panchkula, and the video of the song has been removed from YouTube. The police have also initiated the process of issuing a lookout circular.