By Singer and composer Adnan Sami has responded strongly to criticism over his recent meeting with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, saying he has no reason to apologise for interacting with people who treat him with respect. The controversy erupted after photographs of the two sharing a meal at an RSS centenary event in Mumbai sparked sharp political reactions, particularly from the Maharashtra Congress.
The meeting, held during a two-day programme celebrating the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s centenary, quickly became a political talking point on social media. While opposition leaders questioned the interaction, Sami maintained that his association with Bhagwat was based on mutual respect and not political affiliation.
The event was attended by several public figures, including actors Rupali Ganguly, Shilpa Shetty, and film producer Ramesh Taurani. Images from the gathering circulated widely online, prompting criticism from the Maharashtra Congress, which questioned Sami’s presence alongside the RSS chief.
Responding through a series of posts on X, Sami addressed the Maharashtra Congress directly, urging the party to move beyond historical divisions and accept legal and democratic realities. Referring to the Partition, he remarked that present-day generations should not be held responsible for the actions of their predecessors, adding that societies must learn to move forward rather than remain trapped in the past.
Sami also reacted to comments made by Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut. In a light-hearted yet pointed response, the singer joked about Raut’s harmonium-playing skills and offered to teach him, while reiterating that he is not involved in politics. He described himself as a musician whose work is centred on spreading love through music and said he would continue to respect anyone who treated him with warmth.
The controversy intensified after Sami shared photographs from his meeting with Mohan Bhagwat and praised the RSS chief. In his post, he described Bhagwat as a “gentleman” and a “beautiful soul,” adding that their conversation helped clear several misconceptions he had heard about the organisation.
The Maharashtra Congress, however, criticised the interaction and referred to Sami’s family background in its social media response. The party questioned the optics of the meeting, alleging that it reflected poorly on the RSS leadership.
Despite the political backlash, Sami has not withdrawn his remarks and has instead defended his right to meet individuals across ideological lines. His response has generated widespread discussion online, with supporters viewing it as an appeal for dialogue and mutual respect, while critics continue to question the symbolism of the meeting.
