Rajpal Yadav and Celebrities Rally Behind Daler Mehndi Amid Controversy

In a recent incident, Uttarakhand's Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal faced backlash for his derogatory remarks towards singer Daler Mehndi during a performance. Actor Rajpal Yadav, along with other prominent figures from the film industry, has publicly condemned the minister's behavior, emphasizing the importance of respecting artists. This controversy has sparked widespread support for Daler, highlighting the challenges he faces with his health. As the entertainment community rallies behind him, the incident raises questions about the treatment of artists in public forums. Read on to discover more about this unfolding situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 21, 2026, 15:06 IST

Support for Daler Mehndi Grows

Following a recent incident where Uttarakhand's Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal made disparaging remarks towards renowned Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi, numerous artists from the Hindi and Punjabi film industries have come forward to express their support for the singer. Actor Rajpal Yadav took to Instagram to condemn the minister's behavior, emphasizing that Daler has been facing health challenges recently.

Voices of Support from the Industry

In addition to Rajpal Yadav, prominent figures such as Anupam Kher, Sona Mohapatra, Badshah, and Mika Singh have criticized the minister's language and attitude towards Daler Mehndi.

Rajpal Yadav's Statement

In his Instagram video, Rajpal Yadav stated, “As a student of art, I want to share something with you. The way a respected minister used harsh words and inappropriate language towards a great singer, whose voice has touched hearts for decades, is unbecoming of someone in such a responsible position.”

He further added, “It felt as if you have bought art, but art can never be purchased. Art is life, and you must respect life. For your information, Daler does not consume alcohol. I have worked with him in 'Welcome to the Jungle.' He is struggling with health issues, and people are helping him through this. Power and position come and go, but the place of art will always remain high, so you should respect it.”

Understanding the Controversy

The incident occurred during a cultural evening at the 'Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair' in New Tehri, Uttarakhand, on Sunday night. While performing on stage, Minister Subodh Uniyal interrupted Daler Mehndi, questioning, “If you can’t speak, how will you sing?” implying that the singer was under the influence.

Later, addressing the media, Minister Uniyal clarified that Daler Mehndi was paid 3.5 million for his performance at the Navratri event. He remarked, “He is a great artist, but he appeared unsteady on stage and couldn’t stand properly. Moreover, he was merely lip-syncing. I just suggested that he do justice to his art.”

Since the minister's comments and actions, there has been a wave of outrage in the entertainment industry, with stars continuously voicing their support for Daler Mehndi.