Indian playback singer Shibani Kashyap has issued a detailed clarification to Webfit News following speculation linking her name to a group of travellers allegedly connected to a cultural event in Auckland earlier this year.
Speaking to Webfit News, Kashyap stated clearly that she travelled to New Zealand alone as an invited performing artist and had no involvement in organising or recommending any group of dancers or travellers.
According to documents reviewed by Webfit News, Kashyap entered New Zealand on a visitor visa issued for a short-term entertainment act, specifically for a cultural performance engagement.
Her travel itinerary further confirms that she travelled independently from Mumbai to Auckland via Singapore and returned to India shortly after the event.
“I Travelled Alone for the Performance”
During her conversation with Webfit News, Kashyap emphasised that her visit was limited strictly to performing at the community Holi celebration.
“I travelled to New Zealand alone for my performance. I was invited as a singer, and my role was limited strictly to performing at the cultural event.”
She also clarified that she had no authority over immigration or travel arrangements for any other individuals.
“I am not an immigration authority or a visa sponsor. I had absolutely no knowledge of any group travelling in connection with my name.”
No Dance Troupe or Group Accompanied the Artist
Addressing speculation that performers travelled alongside her, Kashyap stated that she did not bring any professional dancers or performers with her.
“I did not bring any dance troupe or performers with me. I performed on my own. During a couple of songs I invited some children from the audience to come on stage simply for interaction.”
According to Kashyap, the event itself was a community cultural celebration rather than a commercial concert, which typically involves large touring teams and production staff.
Immigration Inquiry Before Travel
Kashyap also revealed that shortly before travelling to New Zealand she received a call asking whether anyone was travelling with her for the event.
She said she informed them clearly that she was travelling independently and had no knowledge of any such group.
“I clearly told them that I had no knowledge of anyone travelling with me and that any questions regarding other participants should be directed to the event organisers.”
Organiser Issues Written Clarification
A formal letter issued by CD Foundation, the organisation associated with the cultural programme, also confirms Kashyap’s position.
The letter states that:
- Shibani Kashyap was invited solely as a featured performing artist
- Her role was strictly limited to performing at the Holi cultural celebration
- She had no connection with other individuals who may have travelled as part of a wider cultural delegation
The organisation also requested that the singer’s name and reputation not be linked to unrelated matters concerning other individuals.
Timeline of Shibani Kashyap’s Visit to New Zealand
18 February 2026
Departed Mumbai for Auckland via Singapore.
19 February 2026
Arrived in Auckland.
21 February 2026
Performed at the Community Holi Celebration in Auckland.
22 February 2026
Visited Rotorua.
23 February 2026
Departed Auckland and returned to Mumbai.
Key Facts Confirmed
• Shibani Kashyap travelled alone from Mumbai to Auckland
• She visited New Zealand only to perform at the Holi cultural event
• No dancers or performance troupe travelled with her
• Her role was strictly limited to performing as an invited singer
• Event organisers confirmed she had no connection with other individuals travelling for the programme
Webfit News Perspective
Webfit News spoke with multiple stakeholders connected with the event and reviewed supporting documentation before publishing this clarification.
The documents and statements reviewed indicate that Shibani Kashyap’s involvement in the Auckland event was limited strictly to her performance as a cultural artist.
As a media organisation, Webfit News believes that transparency and factual reporting are essential to ensure public discussions are based on verified information rather than speculation.
