Indian singer Shreya Ghoshal addressed the online criticism she received after speaking about not recording similar songs to Chikni Chameli in the future. 

The Chaudhavi Shab singer had earlier said in an interview that she had become more careful about the lyrics she took to sing. After that statement, social media users questioned why she still performed Chikni Chameli at concerts.

In a recent discussion with Raj Shamani, Shreya explained that she was not embarrassed about the song. She said she had only meant that she would be more selective going forward.

Speaking about the track, she said, “That song is not just a fun number, there’s a lot of artistry in it. There were toned- down versions too. The one that eventually appeared in the film was more subtle than the original drafts, though still suggestive. 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”

She also shared that after the song’s success, she was offered other tracks with lyrics she found uncomfortable. She said one composer had once narrated lines that felt openly objectifying. According to her, she decided not to record that song.

When asked about performing Chikni Chameli despite earlier remarks, she clarified her position. “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. It’s one song I will always have to live with… But I cannot disown it. It’s my song. I’ve owned it,” she said.

The discussion around the song had first gained attention after her 2025 interaction with Lilly Singh, where she spoke about the difference between sensual music and lyrics that objectify women. She had said she felt uncomfortable when very young children sang certain lines without understanding them.

Some online users later criticised her remarks and called her inconsistent for continuing to perform the track live.

Apart from this debate, Shreya recently worked on the song Yahin Guzaar Doon with Amaal Mallik. She also announced her upcoming The Unstoppable World Tour, with shows planned in India, the UK, the USA and Abu Dhabi.