CM Dhami Reaches Out to Daler Mehndi to End Viral Controversy
Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami reaches out to Daler Mehndi to resolve a controversy involving Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal.
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has stepped in to mediate a brewing storm between the state government and renowned singer Daler Mehndi. In a bid to restore harmony, the Chief Minister held a phone conversation with the artist to inquire about his well-being and address the events of the past few days that had sparked widespread debate on social media.
The Root of the Conflict
The tension began during a performance by Daler Mehndi at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in Narendra Nagar, located in the New Tehri area. A video of the event went viral, showing Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal interrupting the singer mid-performance.
In the footage, the minister is heard questioning Mehndi's singing ability and reminding him that he was invited specifically to entertain the audience. Uniyal further urged the singer to maintain the dignity of his reputation as a celebrated artist. Following the viral clip, social media was flooded with allegations claiming that the singer appeared intoxicated and was struggling to perform.
CM Dhami’s Intervention and 'Atithi Devo Bhava'
Taking note of the public outcry, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized that Uttarakhand, known as Devbhoomi, is built on the foundation of 'Atithi Devo Bhava' (the guest is equivalent to God). He asserted that the state's identity is defined by warm hospitality, folk culture, and a spirit of harmony where artists and scholars are always held in high esteem.
During his conversation with Daler Mehndi, the Chief Minister expressed his desire to move past the incident through mutual dialogue and positivity. He stated that the land of Uttarakhand has a long tradition of honoring creative personalities and that the state government remains committed to respecting art and culture.
Minister Subodh Uniyal’s Clarification
Addressing the media, CM Dhami called for an end to the controversy, noting that Minister Subodh Uniyal had already clarified his position. The Chief Minister revealed that Uniyal had acknowledged he was unaware of the singer's poor health at the time of the incident and had no intention of causing offense.
"These are all distinguished artists. Uttarakhand is a land that honours writers, artists, and scholars alike," the Chief Minister remarked, urging the public to consider the matter closed now that the minister has issued a formal clarification.
Broadening the Peace Effort
The Chief Minister's efforts to resolve the misunderstanding extended beyond Daler Mehndi. According to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), Dhami also spoke with the singer's brother and fellow artist Mika Singh.
During these discussions, the CM stressed that any difference of opinion or misunderstanding should be resolved amicably in a cordial atmosphere. He reiterated that the state wholeheartedly welcomes artists from across the globe and will continue to uphold the spirit of respect and hospitality for which Devbhoomi is renowned.