A controversy involving Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi and Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal has triggered widespread debate across social media and the entertainment industry. The incident took place on Sunday, October 18, 2026, during a performance at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in New Tehri, where the minister confronted the singer on stage.
The episode has drawn criticism from several members of the music and film industries, with many coming forward in support of Mehndi. However, Uniyal has stood by his actions, maintaining that he intervened to address concerns about the performance.
What Happened Between Subodh Uniyal and Daler Mehndi?
The incident occurred while 59-year-old Daler Mehndi, widely recognised for popular songs such as Tunak Tunak Tun, was performing at the cultural fair. Videos of the confrontation circulated widely online, showing 66-year-old Subodh Uniyal walking onto the stage and questioning the singer’s ability to perform.
The minister reportedly accused Mehndi of being unable to sing properly and suggested that he was intoxicated. In the viral footage, Uniyal can be heard saying, “Itna paise de kar humne aapko bulaya hai. Aap bewakoof bana rahe hai hume,” which translates to, “We’ve paid you so much money to be here, and you’re making fools of us.”
He also questioned the singer’s ability to perform, saying, “Bola toh jaa nahi raha, gaana kya gaoge,” meaning, “You can’t even speak. How will you sing?”
Uniyal further claimed that Mehndi had received ₹35 lakh for the performance. Allegations that the singer was lip-syncing during the show have also emerged.
Subodh Uniyal Defends His Actions
Following the incident, Uniyal, who serves as Uttarakhand’s Parliamentary Affairs and Forest Minister, defended his decision to confront the singer publicly. He maintained that his intention was not to cause harm but to ensure that the audience received the performance they had expected.
The minister argued that if Mehndi was unwell, he should have informed the event organisers in advance rather than proceeding with the performance.
His remarks have done little to contain the controversy, as criticism from members of the entertainment industry continues to grow.
Mika Singh and Bollywood Celebrities Support Daler Mehndi
Singer Mika Singh, Daler Mehndi’s brother, has strongly rejected the allegations against him and called on Uniyal to issue a public apology.
In a post on X, Mika said that Daler Mehndi does not consume alcohol and described the allegations as unacceptable. He also revealed that his brother has been dealing with health problems for the past two to three years and recently underwent surgery.
Mika also challenged the minister to provide receipts or other evidence to substantiate the claim that the singer was paid ₹35 lakh for the performance.
Several other prominent entertainment personalities, including Anupam Kher, Shaan, Palash Sen, Gurdas Maan, Alisha Chinai and Vir Das, have expressed support for Daler Mehndi.
Anupam Kher also defended the singer, stating that he knew Mehndi personally and had never known him to drink alcohol. He added that the singer had not been keeping well for the past two to three years.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has also intervened, appealing to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami to ensure that the matter is handled sensitively. The organisation highlighted Mehndi’s health concerns and his contributions to the music industry.
Pushkar Singh Dhami May Intervene to Resolve the Dispute
Amid the growing backlash, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has indicated that he will speak with both Mika Singh and Daler Mehndi in an effort to resolve the dispute.
Dhami has also acknowledged the public pressure faced by Uniyal during the incident. His proposed discussions could help address the concerns raised by the singer’s family and members of the entertainment industry as the controversy continues to unfold.