Neha Kakkar Reacts To Sunidhi Chauhan’s ‘Scripted’ Reality Show Claim: ‘Angoor Khatte Hai’

Neha Kakkar has responded to Sunidhi Chauhan’s recent statement that music reality shows are scripted, offering a candid defence of the genre during the launch of I-POPSTAR. The singer, who has been closely associated with music reality shows over the years, dismissed the idea that the emotions and personal stories seen on such platforms are simply manufactured for television. Speaking at the event, Neha said that the experiences shared by contestants often come from genuine struggles and real-life journeys.

Addressing Sunidhi’s statement, Neha drew a comparison with the familiar Khatte Angoor (sour grapes) saying. She said, “You know the saying about ‘sour grapes’ when one can’t get them? It’s just like that; if someone doesn’t get the grapes, they perceive them as sour. This show isn’t scripted at all—real life isn’t scripted, after all. Of course, most of us Indians come from humble backgrounds; I come from one myself.”

Neha went on to explain why emotional moments on music reality shows can feel so genuine to her. She said, “So, if I get emotional hearing someone’s story—if I feel those emotions—it’s only natural. We all come from various small towns and overcome so many hurdles along the way. Naturally, the contestants aren’t just going to fabricate new stories out of nowhere. The truth is the truth, and that is exactly what we witnessed.”

The singer also reflected on her own journey and the success she has experienced through music-based television shows. Neha added, “It’s a huge achievement for me to have delivered such super-hit series. If things aren’t working out now... well, what can I say? I don’t have any complaints about that.” Her comments underline the importance these shows have had in her career while also making it clear that she continues to stand by the authenticity of the contestants’ experiences.

The remarks came during the launch of I-POPSTAR, an upcoming season featuring judges including Neha Kakkar, King and Aditya Rikhari. The event brought together prominent names from India’s contemporary music scene and provided the setting for Neha to address the ongoing conversation around reality television and how much of what viewers see is spontaneous versus produced for the screen.

Sunidhi Chauhan’s comments had already sparked discussion among music and television audiences, and Neha’s response is likely to add further fuel to that conversation. While the debate over how reality shows are produced is unlikely to disappear anytime soon, Neha has made her position clear: for her, the emotions, struggles and aspirations shared by contestants are rooted in real experiences. And when those stories strike a personal chord, she believes the emotions that follow are just as real.