Controversy
‘Singing it for over 25 years’: Usha Uthup denies ‘Didi’ song was aimed at Mamata's defeat
Kolkata/IBNS: Veteran singer Usha Uthup has dismissed speculation linking one of her performances to the Trinamool Congress’ defeat in the West Bengal Assembly elections.
What sparked the controversy?
A section of social media users claimed Uthup had sung the popular “Didi” song to celebrate the defeat of the Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress government. Banerjee is popularly referred to as “Didi” in West Bengal politics.
Some users also alleged that the singer had left Kolkata for Mumbai to avoid alleged “cut money” demands by leaders of the then ruling party.
In celebration of Didi leaving Bengal, Usha Uthup had fun by singing ‘Didi Go.’ It should be remembered that during the TMC regime, cut money was allegedly demanded from her for her performances, due to which she became troubled and moved to Mumbai. Now she has returned pic.twitter.com/PMTWe0fo2g
— Oxomiya Jiyori (@SouleFacts) May 10, 2026
Usha Uthup dismisses claims
Reacting to the viral claims, Uthup clarified in a social media post that she has been performing the “Didi” song for more than 25 years and that the performance had no political connection.
She also refuted claims that she had moved out of Kolkata, stating that she has been living in the city since 1976.
“There has been a post circulating on Twitter, Insta and WhatsApp regarding me, and I would like to clarify that several statements made in that post are incorrect and misleading,” Uthup wrote.
“Please do not unnecessarily embroil me in controversies that I have absolutely nothing to do with,” she added.
Photo: Usha Uthup/Facebook
Usha Uthup’s Kolkata connection
Usha Uthup shares a deep and enduring connection with Kolkata, a city she has often described as her home and the place that shaped her musical career.
Although born in Mumbai in 1947, she rose to prominence through Kolkata’s live music scene during the late 1960s and 1970s.
Her breakthrough came at the iconic Trincas nightclub on Park Street, where her energetic performances, distinctive deep voice, sarees, and fusion of Indian and Western music made her a sensation.
Kolkata embraced her unique musical style at a time when Park Street’s live music and nightlife culture were flourishing.
She later became one of the defining musical voices associated with the city.
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