Following a public argument between Uttarakhand minister Subod Uniyal and singer Daler Mehndi, Bollywood actor Anupam Kher has come out in support of Daler Mehndi. In a video message posted late at night, he expressed deep regret over the way he was spoken to on stage.
Furthermore, Anupam Kher called on people from the entertainment world to support Daler Mehndi, whom he has known for the last two or three decades. Although in his video message he clarified that he did not personally witness the incident and cannot say exactly what happened, he defended the singer's character based on his long acquaintance.
He stated: 'I have known Daler Mehndi for the last 20-30 years, and as far as I know, he does not consume alcohol. As far as I know, he is one of the best people I have met so far.'
Kher also mentioned that he learned from his friend Mehndi, Dr. Jhula, that Daler Mehndi's health had not been good in the last two or three years. He suggested that despite health issues, the singer fulfilled his promise to the organizers, which speaks to his professionalism.
Acknowledging the possibility that Mehndi might have used lip-syncing during the performance, Kher emphasized that addressing him in such a manner in front of the audience was unacceptable. He said: 'Maybe he used lip-sync. But it was unpleasant for me that someone was spoken to like that, especially in front of everyone. Daler ji, I am very sorry, but I think people should discuss this. Our industry must discuss this. It is not only his brother's duty to defend him.'
Anupam Kher also addressed Minister Subod Uniyal directly in the caption of his post. He noted that even if the minister was dissatisfied with the performance or presentation, this issue could have been resolved privately and respectfully. The actor asked: 'Minister ji, perhaps you had some objection to his performance—perhaps you were upset by it—but was it really necessary to humiliate him on stage in front of everyone?' He added that such moments could have been discussed confidentially and respectfully.
He concluded his message with warm words to Mehndi, writing: 'Daler ji, you are an exceptional artist and a very good person. Please take care of yourself. May God grant you good health. My love and respect are always with you.'
The conflict arose after videos of Mehndi's performance at the Kunjapuri fair in Narendar Nagar, Tihri, appeared online. These clips show Uniyal questioning the singer on stage, doubting his ability to perform, and asking him to stop.
The Forest Minister of Uttarakhand allegedly expressed disagreement with Mehndi's condition, claiming that performing while intoxicated at an event dedicated to Navaratri and Goddess Durga was completely inappropriate.
Rapper Badshah, comedian-actor Kapil Sharma, and singer Mika Singh also supported Mehndi. Mika, who mentioned that his brother recently underwent surgery and is recovering, went further and stated that if anyone could prove that Mehndi consumed alcohol, he would withdraw from the song.