Shreya Ghoshal Says She Won’t Record Songs Like ‘Chikni Chameli’ Anymore

Singer clarifies she isn’t embarrassed by the hit track but is now more mindful of lyrics and their impact on young listeners

Singer Shreya Ghoshal has said that while she is not ashamed of her popular song Chikni Chameli, she has decided not to record similar songs in the future because she is now more conscious about lyrics and their impact on audiences, especially children.

The singer recently addressed the topic during a podcast conversation with entrepreneur and content creator Raj Shamani, where she spoke about how her perspective on music has evolved over the years.

‘I Am Not Embarrassed Of The Song’

Chikni Chameli, which featured actor Katrina Kaif and became a major chartbuster after its release, continues to be widely loved and performed at concerts. However, Ghoshal explained that she has become more selective about the type of songs she records today.

She said that she is not embarrassed by the song but feels more aware now about how certain lyrics can influence younger audiences.

“That song is not just a fun number; there’s a lot of artistry in it,” she said. “At that time, I didn’t always understand what I was singing. I wasn’t mature enough to fully grasp the meaning of certain lines.”

Trolls Target Singer For Performing The Song

Ghoshal recently faced criticism online after she said she would avoid recording similar tracks in the future but continued to perform Chikni Chameli at concerts.

Responding to the trolling, the singer clarified that she still likes the song and does not want to disown it.

“Yes, I did perform it. I like that song. I think it’s good. But I won’t record songs like that anymore. I’m not embarrassed. I sang that song at that time,” she said.

She added that the song will always remain a part of her career and identity.

“It’s one song I will always have to live with. Sometimes even children dance to it. Sometimes I close my eyes. But I cannot disown it. It’s my song. I’ve owned it.”

Concerns About Young Listeners

The singer also explained that her thinking began to change after she noticed very young children singing or dancing to songs without understanding the lyrics.

“There is a very fine line between being sensual, sexy, and being outright objectified,” she said earlier in a conversation with Lilly Singh. “When little girls sing these songs without understanding their meaning, it feels uncomfortable.”

Because of this, Ghoshal said she now pays closer attention to the lyrics and message of songs before agreeing to record them.

While Chikni Chameli remains one of the most recognisable songs in her career, the singer said her current focus is on choosing music that aligns with her evolving artistic and personal values.