KUALA LUMPUR: Musician Darkkey Nagaraja has courted controversy on social media after posting a picture of him dressed in a suit and sporting a sash similar to those worn during the conferment of royal awards.
In a recent posting, Darkkey, who is known as the 'Indian Emperor of Samba Rock', did not specify the award he received but described it as "a great honour."
"I would like to thank all of you who believed in me and joined me in this unforgettable journey," he said.
His post showed him standing in a hall in front of two throne-like chairs.
He also signed off with "Dato Darkkey Nagaraja," implying that he was recently bestowed the title.
However, some questioned the authenticity of his award.
Ramesh Sugu, a Facebook user, pointed out inconsistencies in the photo.
He questioned how a palace would have a sliding door, "cheap curtains" and less than luxurious seats.
However, responses to his post on Instagram were more positive, drawing more than 800 mostly congratulatory comments.
The New Straits Times' check with Istana Negara showed that no award ceremony was held in the palace on the day of the posting.
Further checks also showed that the sash was comparable to Selangor award recipients.
Darkkey's name, however, was not on its award recipients list.
