Actor Anupam Kher and actor Ejaz Khan have spoken out in support of singer Daler Mehndi after a video from a live show in Uttarakhand showed Cabinet minister Subodh Uniyal questioning the performer on stage.
The incident took place during the live programme at the Kunjapuri Mela in Narendra Nagar, Tehri Garhwal district, on the night of Sunday, 18 October. The video later circulated widely on social media and triggered criticism from several people in the film and music industries.
According to the account presented in the video, Uniyal questioned Mehndi’s performance and said the singer was not standing properly and appeared to be lip-syncing. The minister also said Mehndi had been paid 35 lakh rupees for the programme and should have delivered a performance matching that amount.
The video also shows the minister accusing Mehndi of being drunk and misleading the audience. Mehndi is seen trying to explain the situation before announcing that he would continue singing. No official statement from Mehndi has been reported after the exchange.
Anupam Kher objects to public criticism
Anupam Kher said he felt deeply hurt after watching the footage. He said Uniyal could have raised any concern privately and respectfully instead of addressing Mehndi in that manner on stage.
Kher said he had known Mehndi for many years and described him as a kind person who had spread happiness through his music. He also said the singer had built his reputation over the past 30–35 years and that such a career deserved recognition.
Kher added that, to his knowledge, Mehndi did not drink alcohol. He expressed regret that the singer had to face the situation and urged other members of the film industry who know Mehndi to speak in his support.
Ejaz Khan says the singer showed restraint
Ejaz Khan also released a video supporting Mehndi. He called Mehndi a major artist and said the singer did not retaliate despite the minister’s conduct on stage.
Khan claimed that Mehndi and his bodyguards could have thrown the minister off the stage but chose not to do so. Addressing Uniyal, he said the minister had put his hand into a lion’s mouth.
Khan also compared the situation with how singer Mika Singh might have reacted, saying Mika would have responded much more aggressively. His remarks added to the growing public debate over the treatment of performers during live events.
Mika Singh rejects drinking allegation
Mika Singh defended his elder brother after reports and social media commentary suggested that Mehndi had performed after drinking alcohol. Mika said Mehndi had never been seen drinking, including at birthday parties and other events, during his 30-year career.
Mika said the singer had recently undergone a major operation and was unwell when he attended the show. He claimed Mehndi had a 104 degree fever but still went to the event to honour his commitment.
Mika said criticism of Mehndi’s singing or ability to stand could be expressed, but he rejected the allegation that the singer had been drinking. He challenged anyone who had seen Mehndi drinking alcohol to come forward, saying he would leave singing if even one person could substantiate that claim.
Comedian Kapil Sharma also offered support, writing that Mehndi had undergone serious surgery and that people should show greater kindness because they may not know what another person is experiencing.
Rapper Badshah described Mehndi as a legend and said disappointment could be expressed without publicly humiliating an artist who had contributed greatly to Indian music. He added that established performers deserved respect, particularly when facing a difficult period.
What is established and what remains disputed
The publicly reported dispute centres on the stage exchange and the differing accounts of Mehndi’s condition and performance. Uniyal questioned the quality of the presentation and referred to drinking, while Mika Singh said Mehndi was ill, had undergone a major operation and had a 104 degree fever.
The available account does not include a formal medical record or an official response from Mehndi confirming those health details. It also does not report any further official action by the event organisers or authorities.
Conclusion
The Uttarakhand stage exchange has widened into a public dispute over performance standards, respectful treatment of artists and claims about Daler Mehndi’s health and alcohol use. Anupam Kher, Ejaz Khan, Mika Singh, Kapil Sharma and Badshah have expressed support, while no official statement from Mehndi has been reported.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Where did the incident involving Daler Mehndi take place?
It took place during a live show at the Kunjapuri Mela in Narendra Nagar, Tehri Garhwal district, Uttarakhand.
Q. When did the reported incident occur?
The incident occurred on the night of Sunday, 18 October.
Q. Who questioned Daler Mehndi’s performance?
Uttarakhand Cabinet minister Subodh Uniyal questioned Mehndi’s performance during the programme.
Q. What payment did the minister mention?
The minister said Daler Mehndi had been paid 35 lakh rupees for the programme.
Q. What did Mika Singh say about Mehndi’s health?
Mika Singh said Mehndi had undergone a major operation and had a 104 degree fever when he attended the show.
Q. Which public figures supported Daler Mehndi?
Anupam Kher, Ejaz Khan, Mika Singh, Kapil Sharma and Badshah expressed support for the singer.
Q. Has Daler Mehndi issued an official statement?
No official statement from Daler Mehndi has been reported after the stage exchange.
