Actor Rajpal Yadav has publicly come out in defence of veteran singer Daler Mehndi amid a growing controversy over the singer's performance at a cultural event in Uttarakhand, stating that Mehndi's health has been deteriorating and that people close to him are actively working to help him recover.

What Rajpal Yadav Said

In a video message shared on his social media account, Rajpal took direct aim at Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal, who had publicly reprimanded Mehndi on stage. 'The way a respected minister, in front of thousands of people, used such horrible words for a legendary singer whose voice has served the country and the world for decades, and even gave an example of beating, was shocking. Honourable Minister, this does not suit you,' Rajpal said in the video.

The actor also pushed back against the framing of artistes as transactional commodities. 'It felt as if you had bought art. Art can never be bought. Art is a life. Respect life,' he said, emphasising that a performer's legacy cannot be reduced to the terms of a single engagement.

Alcohol Allegation Rejected

Rajpal specifically addressed and rejected the allegation — raised by Minister Uniyal on stage — that Mehndi had consumed alcohol before the performance. 'For your information, Mr Daler Mehndi does not drink alcohol. I have also worked with him in Welcome to the Jungle. His health is deteriorating, and everyone is trying to make him better as soon as possible,' he said.

How the Controversy Began

The row erupted on Sunday, 19 October 2025, during the annual Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. While Mehndi was mid-performance at the cultural programme, Minister Uniyal walked onto the stage and publicly berated him, alleging the singer was under the influence of alcohol and was failing to perform adequately. The minister also questioned the performance in relation to the fee reportedly paid to Mehndi, adding a financial dimension to the public rebuke.

Other Artists Speak Out

The incident has drawn a wave of solidarity from across the entertainment industry. Singer Mika Singh, who is Mehndi's brother, actor Anupam Kher, and comedian Kapil Sharma have all publicly backed the singer. Each pointed to Mehndi's recent surgery and ongoing health concerns, urging people to respond with compassion rather than public shaming. This comes amid wider conversation about how public figures and institutions treat ageing or ailing artists at live events.

Who Is Daler Mehndi

Daler Mehndi is one of India's most recognisable pop and Punjabi folk artists, best known for chartbusters like 'Tunak Tunak Tun' and 'Bolo Ta Ra Ra', with a career spanning several decades. He has also ventured into acting, most recently appearing in Welcome to the Jungle alongside Rajpal Yadav. As public debate over the treatment of veteran artists continues, the incident is likely to keep the spotlight on how cultural events are managed — and what duties of care organisers and officials owe to performers.