Neha Kakkar announces break from work and relationships in cryptic post, deletes it later amid 'Candy Shop' backlash: 'Not sure if I’ll be back'

A few weeks after her song ‘Candy Shop’, made with her brother Tony Kakkar, got trolled and criticized heavily on social media, famous singer Neha Kakkar has said she will stay away from the public eye for some time. In a mysterious Instagram story, Neha said she is taking a break from personal and work duties, including “relationships.” She asked fans and media to respect her privacy and not click her photos anymore.

Cryptic message shared by Neha Kakkar

Neha shared a cryptic message hinting at stepping away: “Time to take a break from responsibilities, relationships, work and everything I can think of right now. Not sure if I’ll be back or not. Thank you,” she wrote in a post. On her Instagram story, she pleaded, “I request paparazzi and fans not to film me at all. I hope you respect my privacy and let me live freely in this world. No cameras plz! I request! This is the least you all can give me for my peace.”

‘Candy Shop’ backstory

Tony Kakkar has composed, penned, and produced ‘Candy Shop’, which features vocals from both Neha and himself. Released on December 15, 2025, the track exploded on social media, racking up over 23 million YouTube views so far, yet it drew sharp backlash from across the board. Critics labeled it substandard, while many netizens slammed the “vulgar” lyrics and “cringe” dance moves. Others went further, accusing ‘Candy Shop’ of ripping off K-pop aesthetics. The true trigger for Neha's withdrawal from the limelight is still a mystery, though the song's heavy criticism may have factored into her decision.

Neha is married to Punjabi singer Rohanpreet Singh, with their marriage taking place in October 2020. Besides Tony, her other sibling is playback singer-songwriter Sonu Kakkar.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”