Anupam Kher Supports Daler Mehndi Following Uttarakhand Event Controversy

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, questioned his ability to perform properly, and alleged that Mehndi was lip-syncing instead of singing live. The incident was captured on video and circulated widely on social media.

Reacting to the incident, Kher stated he was not present at the event, but defended Mehndi's character based on their 20 to 30-year association, noting that he does not drink and is a fine human being. Kher also mentioned that Mehndi has not been well for the past few years and suggested the singer honoured his professional commitments despite his health concerns.

Kher appealed to members of the entertainment industry to speak up in support of colleagues facing public criticism, stating that the responsibility of standing by Mehndi should not rest solely with his brother, Mika Singh. Other industry members, including Mika Singh, Badshah, and Kapil Sharma, have also expressed support for Mehndi.