Recently, Monali Thakur canceled her show in Varanasi due to inadequate management. The singer has now publicly criticized the organizers in response to the alleged sexual harassment claims made by the event management team against her and her crew.

Monali speaks up

On Monday, Monali utilized Instagram to publish an extensive post detailing the events that transpired at the recent gathering, addressing the allegations while criticizing the management for their mistreatment and exploitation of vendors.

"I had hoped to conclude 2024 and commence the new year of 2025 without having to confront the distressing and negative incident that my team and I encountered in Varanasi. Nevertheless, after considerable contemplation, I believe it is crucial to disclose these unfortunate realities—not only to enhance awareness but also to advocate for reforms in the handling of such issues. Enclosed is a letter of confession and apology from the founder of the event-organizing company. I trust this letter will clarify any misunderstandings regarding the validity of the false defamatory claims made against my team and myself, as well as the unethical conduct exhibited by the organizers," she commenced her statement.

Monali Thakur further expressed, "It has been profoundly troubling for me to come to terms with the reckless and irresponsible actions of the event management company's team. Their exploitation of laws intended to protect individuals from sexual harassment—laws that are essential for the safety of people, particularly women in our society—is both shocking and intolerable. Utilizing such laws for personal vendettas, ego gratification, or retaliation against those who resist unethical practices constitutes a severe violation of rights and is profoundly disrespectful to genuine survivors of these grave offences."

The singer believes that this "reckless behaviour undermines the credibility of survivors who demonstrate remarkable bravery in their pursuit of justice and obstructs the efforts of those dedicated to eradicating such crimes."

"It is especially disheartening to witness young women engaging in such actions, as it undermines the cause and fosters distrust surrounding an issue that must always be approached with the utmost seriousness," she concluded.

Monali recalls the incident

In a recent Instagram post, Monali reflected on the incident that occurred on December 22, during which she claims to have experienced “severe negligence in basic infrastructural safety, unfounded allegations of harassment, and life-threatening intimidation.” She stated that these circumstances compelled her to exit the stage after 70 minutes of her performance.

“It is entirely unacceptable to mistreat vendors, deprive them of their hard-earned income, or deceive them in any manner. Disrespecting and harassing individuals who work behind the scenes—be they backstage crew, artist managers, or artist coordinators—is not a viable approach. Such conduct should never be condoned or accepted, and I assert this on behalf of the entire live entertainment industry, a community that dedicates itself tirelessly to advancing Indian live entertainment to its utmost potential and new heights,” Monali expressed.

Calls for stricter regulation

Monali is recognized for her popular tracks including Sawar Loon, Karle Pyaar Karle, Moh Moh Ke Dhaage, Dhol Baaje, Cham Cham, Dhanak, Laila Majnu, Badri Ki Dulhania, and Khol De Baahein, has advocated for more stringent regulations to safeguard performing artists, as well as backstage and onstage personnel from exploitation.

“To ensure a secure, professional, and respectful atmosphere for all individuals involved, I wish to extend my sincere appreciation to the UP Police and the Varanasi Police Department for their prompt and effective response that day, which enabled us to regain control of the situation. I am also profoundly grateful to the audience in Varanasi for their steadfast love and trust,” she concluded her statement.

Last month, Monali abruptly terminated her concert in Varanasi, citing an unsafe stage configuration that posed a risk of injury. Reports indicate that she accused the organizers of being "irresponsible and unethical," failing to prioritize the safety of both performers and the audience. She exited the stage due to inadequate arrangements.

At that time, the event management company, Back Room Entertainment, publicly refuted all allegations made by Monali. They claimed that Monali and her team had harassed them and dismissed her statements as unfounded. Furthermore, one female organizer alleged that a member of Monali's team had sexually harassed a woman, asserting that this incident contributed to her decision to leave the stage.

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