Uttarakhand Chief Minister Closes Daler Mehndi Humiliation Dispute
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami declared a controversy closed after Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal publicly reprimanded singer Daler Mehndi during a performance in New Tehri.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami declared a public dispute closed after state Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal interrupted a performance by singer Daler Mehndi on October 18. During the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in New Tehri, Uniyal confronted Mehndi on stage, alleging the singer was lip-syncing and appeared intoxicated. Uniyal claimed Mehndi failed to do justice to his art despite receiving a 35 lakh rupee fee, stating he acted under pressure from the public.
The entertainment industry rallied behind Mehndi. His brother, Mika Singh, and comedian Kapil Sharma denied the alcohol allegations, explaining that Mehndi was recovering from serious surgery and illness. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) petitioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Dhami, condemning the public humiliation of a senior artist and urging for more professional discretion.
While most peers supported Mehndi, singer Sona Mohapatra questioned the lack of professional accountability. She cited a previous experience in New Delhi where she observed Mehndi appearing disoriented and struggling to hold notes, arguing that legacy does not exempt artists from their responsibilities to paying audiences.
Chief Minister Dhami intervened to resolve the matter, speaking with Mika Singh to address the misunderstanding. After Uniyal clarified he had no intention to cause hurt and admitted he was unaware of the singer's health issues, Dhami emphasized the state's tradition of honoring artists and urged all parties to consider the matter settled.
