In a recent in-depth conversation with NDTV — prior to the storm that followed the release of his track “MF Gabhru” — Punjabi music sensation Karan Aujla opened up about the deeper meaning behind his artistry, his strong sense of responsibility as a public figure, and the delicate balance he tries to maintain between creative expression and cultural values. The interview, which now feels especially significant in hindsight, offers a window into the rapper-lyricist’s thought process at a time when the conversation around music, identity, and accountability has become more urgent than ever.
Known for his unapologetic lyrics, powerful delivery, and global fanbase, Karan Aujla is no stranger to both admiration and scrutiny. But during this exclusive sit-down, Aujla moved beyond the usual bravado to share a more introspective side. He spoke at length about how fame has transformed his outlook, and how he feels an increasing responsibility toward the youth who look up to him.
“When you’re in the spotlight,” he said, “you don’t just make music for yourself anymore. People take your words seriously. That’s a big responsibility, especially when you’re influencing the next generation.”
Before the recent backlash surrounding certain lyrics in “MF Gabhru,” which some critics claimed promoted problematic attitudes, Aujla had already made it clear that he views music as more than just entertainment. “Our songs travel far and wide now,” he noted. “What we say doesn’t just stay in Punjab. It reaches kids in Canada, Australia, the UK, and everywhere in between. I want to represent our roots, but I also want to push our culture forward — with integrity.”
When asked about the growing tension between modern Punjabi music and traditional values, Aujla didn’t shy away. “I understand that people have concerns,” he acknowledged. “Music is evolving, and not everyone is going to like the new sound. But at the same time, culture doesn’t stay frozen in time. It grows. I try to blend the old with the new — respecting where we came from, but not being afraid to explore where we’re going.”
He also touched on how misinterpretations can sometimes overshadow the intent behind a song. “It’s easy to pick one line out of a track and blow it up,” he said. “But people forget there’s a whole story there — a mood, a context. Music is emotion, and sometimes that emotion comes from a raw, real place.”
Aujla’s reflections now seem to offer a prelude to the conversations ignited by “MF Gabhru,” which sparked a polarizing debate online. While many fans defended the track as a celebration of swagger and youthful pride, others argued that certain expressions cross a line and could send the wrong message.
In the NDTV interview, however, Aujla was clear that he welcomes critique — as long as it leads to constructive dialogue. “I’m always listening,” he said. “People think artists live in their own world, but I read the comments, I hear what’s being said. At the end of the day, I’m trying to grow too. I want my music to have soul. To have weight.”
Despite the current controversy, his comments reflect an artist who doesn’t view himself as infallible — but as someone evolving in real time. He also emphasized the need for artists to not just reflect culture, but contribute meaningfully to it. “We have the power to influence hearts and minds. That’s not something to take lightly,” he added.
As the debate over lyrics, image, and artistic boundaries continues, this pre-controversy interview offers a crucial glimpse into Aujla’s mindset — one that reveals not just a performer, but a cultural voice deeply aware of the role he plays in shaping the narrative.
Whether the conversations sparked by “MF Gabhru” lead to more introspection within the industry or simply fade away in the fast-moving world of digital outrage, one thing is clear: Karan Aujla is not just making music — he’s making people talk.
