Sonu Nigam `s marriage to long-time girlfriend Madhushree Mishra of Kolkata must have silenced all those dirty minds insinuating that there was something brewing between the singer and Smita Thackeray, Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray`s estranged daughter-in-law. But the aspiring actor — he has signed Raj Kumar Kohli`s Naagin and Raj Babbbar`s home production opposite Juhi Babbar — has been plagued by controversies ever since he became a household name when he hosted Zee Television`s Sa Re Ga Ma.

Singers, some of whom are his seniors and now rivals, music directors to producers, whose films he turned down at the peak of his popularity and even actresses — all have serious grievances against the 28-year-old celebrity. Poor Sonu, he has had to pay a heavy price for all the glory he has earned for himself. Post marriage, he is in a bit of a quandary. He has been flooded with acting offers. At last count, Sonu had declined 40 odd film offers and is said to be waiting for the response to his first two releases before chalking out his future as an actor.

He is also the most-sought after (read expensive) singer along with Udit Narayan and Kumar Sanu and taking time off for shooting schedules would not only make his producers unhappy but would help his rivals make giant leaps forward by usurping his playback assignments. Stick to the tried and tested formula, Sonu.