Veteran actor Anupam Kher has publicly backed singer Daler Mehndi following a viral video showing Uttarakhand cabinet minister Subodh Uniyal confronting and publicly berating the singer during a cultural event, calling the minister's conduct disrespectful and wrong. Kher, who says he has known Daler for 20–30 years, also revealed that the singer has reportedly been unwell for the past two to three years.

What Happened at the Uttarakhand Event

The controversy erupted at the annual Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, where Daler Mehndi was performing. During the performance, minister Subodh Uniyal reportedly walked on stage, interrupted the singer, and publicly questioned his presentation — an exchange that was captured on video and spread rapidly across social media. The incident sparked a wider debate about the treatment of artists at government-organised events.

Anupam Kher Speaks Out

Taking to his social media account, Anupam Kher posted a video addressing the incident directly. 'I was not there, so I don't know exactly what happened. But I have known Daler Mehndi for the past 20–30 years, and I can say that he does not drink, as far as I know. He is one of the finest human beings that I have met,' Kher said in the video.

The actor also offered a possible explanation for the singer's presentation, stating, 'It is possible that he was not well. I have a friend, Dr. Jool, and I personally know that Daler has not been well for the past two to three years.' He further suggested the singer may have felt professionally bound to honour his commitment despite his condition. 'It is possible that his commitment was with the organisers and he could not refuse. That is his professionalism, he stuck to his commitment. It is possible that he was lip-syncing,' Kher added.

Kher Questions Minister's Conduct

Addressing Minister Uniyal directly, Kher wrote: 'Mr. Minister, you may have a complaint about his presentation. There can be anger as well. But was it necessary to go on stage and insult him like this? The same thing could have been said by sitting apart from him and speaking respectfully.' He described the public dressing-down as unfair, stating, 'It is wrong to publicly slander someone like this.'

Kher also called on the entertainment industry to rally behind the singer. 'It is not only Mika ji's duty to speak up for his brother. Not even just to defend him, but to say something. We should all talk and take a stand for people we know,' he said, addressing Daler directly with, 'Daler ji, I am so sorry. But I think people should talk about it.'

A Career Spanning 35 Years Under the Spotlight

Kher underscored Daler Mehndi's decades-long contribution to Indian music: 'An artist earns recognition and respect through his hard work; it takes a whole lifetime. Daler ji has made us all happy with his songs for the past thirty-five years. That contribution should be appreciated.' He closed his message with a personal note of support, saying, 'Daler ji, I want to tell you that I trust your judgement, your professionalism, your goodness and your greatness. May God bless you. May you get well soon, because I know that you are not well.'

What Happens Next

The incident has renewed scrutiny of how public officials conduct themselves at state-organised cultural events, with several voices from the entertainment fraternity weighing in. Notably, this is not the first time a performer's treatment at a government event has drawn public criticism in India. Whether minister Subodh Uniyal or the Uttarakhand government respond formally remains to be seen, but the viral reach of the video has kept pressure on those involved.