Mumbai: Badshah recently shared an emotional note after his London concert, opening up about the impact of recent controversies while also announcing new music.
The rapper has been in the news over the past few weeks, first due to backlash surrounding his song ‘Tateeree’ for its alleged indecent portrayal of women, and then because of viral photos suggesting his marriage to Isha Rikhi.
After performing at The O2 Arena in London, Badshah took to Instagram Stories to thank his fans and reflect on a difficult phase. He admitted that the past few weeks had tested him in ways he wasn’t prepared for, and said that while life may look perfect from the outside, reality can be very different.
He added that the energy from the audience in London reminded him of his purpose and why he makes music. Calling it a turning point, Badshah said he now feels ready for the “next phase” and revealed that new music is on the way.
“I’ll be honest with you, these past few weeks tested me in ways I wasn’t fully prepared for. There’s a version of this life that looks perfect from the outside, and then there’s the reality of what you actually carry when the cameras are off. I’ve been sitting with a lot. But London reminded me of something I needed to be reminded of. When I walked out on that O2 stage, the energy hit me before the sound did. The faces, the voices, the warmth in that arena. You flew in from different cities, different countries, different lives, and you showed up for this music, for me, like it meant something to you. That night I remembered who I am and what this is all for. I think I’m ready for the next phase. New music is on its way and I’m pouring everything into it. Thank you for holding me down even when I couldn’t say why I needed it,” he wrote.
Badshah’s song Tateeree, released earlier this month, faced heavy criticism for its bold lyrics and visuals, with many calling it inappropriate.
The controversy led to an FIR being filed against him in Panchkula under laws related to public decency.
The track was later removed from YouTube and other platforms, and Badshah issued an apology, saying the lyrics were aimed at rival rappers, and not meant to offend women or children.
Meanwhile, alleged wedding photos of Badshah and Isha Rikhi surfaced online on March 24, sparking widespread speculation. However, neither of them has confirmed whether the images are real.
Badshah recently became one of few Indian rappers to perform at O2Arena. The show is being seen as a major milestone and a lead-up to his upcoming world tour.
Apart from music, Badshah is also currently seen as a judge on Indian Idol, alongside Shreya Ghoshal and Vishal Dadlani.
