The public criticism of veteran singer Daler Mehndi by Uttarakhand minister Subodh Uniyal during a state event has snowballed into a major controversy. Following the incident, several artists from the Bollywood film industry have come out in support of Daler Mehndi. Renowned singer Mika Singh has also backed his elder brother and demanded an apology from the minister. Amidst growing reactions, Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal has issued a statement clarifying his stance, stating that if the singer was unwell, he should have communicated it beforehand and that his intention was never to cause any distress.
What Minister Subodh Uniyal Said
Speaking on Wednesday, Minister Subodh Uniyal stated that Daler Mehndi should have clarified that his health was not fine and avoided coming to perform. Subodh remarked that the singer was merely lip-syncing while the music played in the background. According to Subodh, being a public representative associated with the event's organizing committee, pressure was mounting on him from individuals who wanted to raise questions about the performance.
Background of the Incident
The controversy stems from a cultural event organized by the Uttarakhand government on Sunday night in Narendra Nagar, located in the New Tehri area. While Mehndi was delivering his performance, Uniyal walked onto the stage and expressed his displeasure, triggering a major dispute. The minister mentioned that Mehndi was neither able to speak properly nor walk straight, which led him to believe that the singer might have been under the influence of some substance.
No Personal Enmity Against Mehndi, Says Minister
Uniyal noted that Daler Mehndi is a huge name, which is why he was invited to the Kunjapuri Fair. However, during the performance, it became evident that he was not actually singing but only lip-syncing. Uniyal stated that they were asked to make an advance payment of 35 lakh rupees to the artist, and hotels were booked in advance. He emphasized that he has no personal enmity against Mehndi and no intention to cause any hurt, but such a prominent artist should have refused to perform knowing his physical condition.
