Actor Anupam Kher has come out in support of singer Daler Mehndi following the controversy surrounding his performance at a Navratri event in Uttarakhand. In a video message, Kher expressed disappointment over the way Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal addressed the singer on stage and questioned whether the matter could have been handled privately.
The controversy began on October 18, when Uniyal interrupted Mehndi’s performance at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in New Tehri. The minister accused the singer of appearing intoxicated and questioned his ability to perform properly. He also alleged that Mehndi was lip-syncing instead of singing live. The incident was captured on video and subsequently circulated widely on social media.
Reacting to the incident, Kher said he had not been present at the event and therefore could not comment on exactly what had happened. However, he spoke about his long-standing association with Mehndi and defended the singer’s character.
Anupam Kher questions the way Daler Mehndi was addressed
In his video message, Kher recalled watching the footage of the confrontation and said he was hurt by the way the singer was spoken to in front of an audience.
“I wasn't there, so I don't know, but I have known Daler Mehndi for the last 20-30 years, and I can say that he does not drink, as far as I am concerned. As far as I know, and he is one of the finest human beings that I have met,” the actor said.
Kher also spoke about Mehndi’s health, saying he knew the singer had not been well for the past few years. He suggested that the singer may have honoured his professional commitment despite his health concerns.
“It is possible that, and he is not well, because one of our friends, Dr. Jool, he keeps meeting me, and I personally know that he is not well, for the last 2-3 years. It is possible that his commitment was with these organisations and he could not refuse. That's his professionalism that he stuck to his commitment,” Kher said.
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Acknowledging that he could not rule out the possibility of lip-syncing, the actor maintained that the manner in which the singer was addressed publicly was troubling.
“But, and he sang, it is also possible that he lip-synced. But I just felt bad that nobody should speak to anybody like that. That also on open forum,” he added.
Kher urges film industry to stand by Daler Mehndi
In the video, Kher also appealed to members of the entertainment industry to speak up in support of colleagues facing public criticism. He said the responsibility of standing by Mehndi should not rest solely with his brother, singer Mika Singh.
“Daler, I am so sorry, but I think people should talk about it. Our industry should talk about it. It is not only me, Kajji's duty to sort of defend his brother. Not even defend, to say things. We should all talk and take a stand for people that we know,” he said.
The actor then addressed Mehndi directly, expressing his faith in the singer’s character and professionalism. “I felt bad, and Daler, I want to tell you that I trust your judgement, your professionalism, your goodness, your greatness,” Kher said.
He concluded by wishing the singer a speedy recovery and expressing regret over what he had experienced at the event. “And may God bless you, may you get well soon, because you are not well, I know that. And I am sorry that you had to go through this. May God bless you. You are great. You are the best. God bless you. You are the best,” he added.
Anupam Kher says concerns could have been raised privately
Alongside the video, Kher shared a Hindi caption in which he reiterated his disappointment over the public confrontation. He acknowledged that the minister could have had concerns about the performance but questioned whether it was necessary to raise them in front of everyone.
Kher also highlighted the years of work that go into building an artist’s reputation and asked that Mehndi’s contribution to music be taken into consideration.
Daler Mehndi receives support from members of the entertainment industry
The incident has prompted reactions from several members of the entertainment industry. Mika Singh, Badshah and Kapil Sharma have expressed support for Mehndi, with Mika disputing the allegation that his brother drinks alcohol and pointing to his health issues. Kapil Sharma has also appealed for empathy towards the singer.
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