The singer reveals she performed for free, battled mismanagement, and went on stage despite not being paid or fed—only for her fans.
Neha Kakkar Opens Up About Melbourne Show Chaos: “I Performed for Free, My Band Had No Food or Water”
Days after facing criticism for arriving late to her concert in Melbourne, singer Neha Kakkar has finally spoken out—setting the record straight and revealing a shocking sequence of events that unfolded behind the scenes.
Taking to Instagram on Thursday, Neha shared a heartfelt and detailed note explaining how the show was plagued by mismanagement, financial fraud, and lack of basic hospitality for her and her team.
“They said I came three hours late… but did they even ask what happened to me and my band?” Neha wrote. “The organisers ran away with my money—and others’ too. We were not given food, water, or even a hotel to rest. Despite all this, I went on stage and performed because my fans were waiting.”
The Dilbar singer revealed that she performed completely free for the Melbourne audience, purely out of love and respect for her fans. She also added that her husband and his team had to personally provide food to her band members.
She further revealed that the sound check was severely delayed as the sound vendor refused to set up equipment due to non-payment. At one point, her team didn’t even know if the concert would happen, as the organisers stopped answering calls and reportedly fled from the venue and sponsors.
“Who am I to punish anyone? But now that my name is being dragged, I had to speak up,” she clarified.
Neha concluded by thanking her fans and loyal supporters, especially her fandom, affectionately known as “NeHearts,” for their empathy and solidarity.
“I’ll forever be grateful to all those who stood up for me, cried with me, and danced through the pain. You all are my strength.”
Earlier, her brother and fellow singer Tony Kakkar also came forward, blaming event mismanagement for the delays and chaos.
Neha’s statement has reignited conversations around how artists are treated in international events and the need for greater accountability in live music shows.