Lucknow, August 30, 2025 – Bhojpuri actor-singer Pawn Singh has ignited widespread criticism after a viral video from a Lucknow event on August 28 showed him placing his hand on co-star Anjali Raghav’s waist without consent.
The incident, during a promotion for their song “Saiya Seva Kare,” showed Raghav visibly uncomfortable as Singh claimed “something was stuck” on her saree.
Social media erupted, with users slamming the act as disrespectful, one stating, “What a disgusting person! Anjali looked so uncomfortable, yet couldn’t react—classic power dynamics.”
Raghav, in a video statement today, said, “Touching any woman without permission is wrong. I was scared and humiliated,” announcing her exit from the Bhojpuri industry.
Singh, no stranger to controversies, has not responded. The incident has fueled calls for accountability and respect for personal boundaries in the industry.
The video, which has racked up millions of views across social media platforms within 48 hours, depicts Raghav, dressed in a shimmering golden saree, engaging with the audience by greeting them with a traditional “Ram Ram.”
As she speaks into the microphone, Singh, standing beside her in a sharp white ensemble, suddenly extends his hand toward her exposed midriff. He can be heard insisting, “Kuch laga hai tumhari kamar par” (There’s something stuck on your waist), even as Raghav shifts uncomfortably and responds with a hesitant “Nahin, nahin” (No, no).
Pawan Singh Aplogogises
Singh has issued a public apology via a video statement on social media. The clip, uploaded on August 30, 2025, shows the actor addressing the viral incident from the Lucknow promotional event, where he was seen placing his hand on Raghav’s waist without consent.
In the video, Singh appears remorseful, stating, “I deeply regret my actions on stage. It was unintentional, and I never meant to make Anjali uncomfortable. I apologize to her and all those who felt hurt by this.”
The apology has garnered mixed reactions, with some fans praising his accountability while others question its sincerity given the power dynamics involved.Raghav’s earlier emotional response, where she announced her departure from the Bhojpuri industry, has added layers to the discourse.
Supporters of the actress have welcomed the apology but emphasized the need for concrete steps, such as industry-wide training on consent.
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