'Respect is a Two-Way Street': Mika Singh Slams Minister Over Daler Mehndi Row
Singer Mika Singh slams Uttarakhand Minister Subodh Uniyal for disrespecting Daler Mehndi, demanding a public apology over intoxication claims.
The music industry is buzzing with tension after singer Mika Singh took to social media to defend his brother and music icon, Daler Mehndi. Mika Singh has demanded a formal apology from Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal following a controversial incident during a live performance in the state, where the minister allegedly humiliated the legendary singer on stage.
The Spark of Controversy
The clash unfolded during the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in Narendra Nagar, located in the New Tehri area. While Daler Mehndi was performing, Minister Subodh Uniyal interrupted the show, questioning the singer's ability to perform and reminding him that he was invited specifically to entertain the audience. The minister further urged Mehndi to maintain the reputation associated with his stature as a well-known artist.
The incident gained massive traction after a video of the exchange went viral on social media. Following the clip's release, allegations began circulating online suggesting that Daler Mehndi was intoxicated and struggling to sing during the set.
Mika Singh's Fierce Defense
Deeply hurt by the treatment of his brother, Mika Singh posted a series of messages on X (formerly Twitter), calling the minister's behavior "extremely rude and disrespectful." Mika highlighted that artists deserve dignity regardless of the situation and questioned if such behavior would discourage performers from visiting Uttarakhand.
Mika Singh also pointed out the harsh language used by the minister, citing a report that Uniyal had said, "Yahan aapse pehle Maninder Buttar pit ke gaya tha. Itna pita tha ki ab uska baap bhi nahi aa sakta yahan se."
"Public office comes with responsibility, humility, and accountability," Mika wrote, urging the minister to reflect on his words.
Health Struggles vs. Intoxication Claims
Addressing the rumors of intoxication, Mika Singh categorically denied that Daler Mehndi consumes alcohol. He revealed that the singer has been battling health issues for the past two years and is still in the process of recovery. Mika further disclosed via an Instagram video that Daler Mehndi had recently undergone a surgical operation.
Defending the performance style, Mika noted that while many modern performers rely on backing tracks without facing such scrutiny, Daler Mehndi was unfairly targeted despite his health struggles.
The Minister's Version
Speaking to ANI, Minister Subodh Uniyal defended his actions, claiming his intervention was not about intoxication but about authenticity. He alleged that Daler Mehndi was lip-syncing rather than singing live. The minister also expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of the show, noting that the singer had been paid Rs 35 lakh for the performance.
An Appeal to the Chief Minister
Despite his anger toward the minister, Mika Singh expressed his deep respect for Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, describing him as a humble and down-to-earth leader. Mika revealed that the CM had personally called him regarding the matter.
Mika has made a humble request to CM Dhami to ask Minister Subodh Uniyal to release a simple video clarifying his statements and offering a formal apology to Daler Mehndi to restore the singer's dignity and reputation.