Sona Mohapatra Backs Alia Bhatt, Slams Trolls Over Award Show Hosting

Singer Sona Mohapatra has come out in support of Alia Bhatt amid heavy trolling over her hosting performance at a recent award show, stressing that the challenges of a live stage are often underestimated.

In a video shared on Instagram, Sona pointed out that Alia’s monologue was delivered live, leaving no room for retakes or edits. She argued that attempting such a performance itself required courage. “Live means no retake, no edit, no filter. Most actors wouldn’t even pick up the mic. She gave it a shot, and that itself is commendable,” she said.

Calling the attempt “brave,” Sona also criticised the industry audience, describing it as unresponsive and difficult to engage. Drawing from her own experience performing at events like the Mijwan fashion show—organised by Shabana Azmi—she said such gatherings are often more focused on appearances and networking than participation. “It’s a tough audience. Even at events for a good cause, the room can feel ‘dead’,” she remarked.

She also pushed back against comparisons between Alia and co-host Zakir Khan, noting that he is a seasoned stand-up comedian. “He’s an ustad of stand-up. Put him in Alia’s space—acting or dancing—and the comparison would shift,” she said, adding that the audience dynamic also differed.

Sona concluded with a pointed message for the industry, urging it to be more receptive. “Bollywood needs to learn to laugh a little—it won’t kill you,” she said.