The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has come out in support of singer Shilpa Rao after her performance at an event in Mumbai was abruptly interrupted, with her microphone and stage lights allegedly switched off before she could finish her act.
Rao was reportedly left disappointed after being prevented from completing her performance on Saturday. According to AICWA, another performer, Kutle Khan of the Kutle Khan Project, was subsequently allowed to take over the stage while Rao was still present.
In a statement shared on X, the association condemned the incident, calling the organisers’ alleged actions unacceptable and an affront to the dignity of a performing artist.
AICWA also highlighted the audience’s response, stating that people continued chanting Rao’s name after her microphone was switched off, demonstrating their support for the singer.
The association said that treating an artist of Rao’s stature in such a manner, particularly at an anniversary event, was an insult to the respect and recognition she had earned through her work.
AICWA further stated that it would support Rao if she decided to pursue action over the incident. It warned that any future mistreatment of artists would invite strict action against those responsible in accordance with the law.
Calling on event organisers to ensure that performers are treated with dignity, the association cautioned that artists could refuse to perform at events where such behaviour continued.
“An artist wants respect, not humiliation,” AICWA said, stressing that no performer should be subjected to such treatment on a live stage.