Actor Rajpal Yadav has expressed support for singer Daler Mehndi amid controversy over Mehndi’s performance at a cultural event in Uttarakhand.Yadav shared a video on his Instagram account commenting on the incident that occurred during the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in New Tehri on Sunday. He criticised Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal for his “inappropriate” remarks towards the singer.Yadav said, “As an art student, I would like to express that the disrespectful remarks and inappropriate language used by a respected minister against a legendary singer, whose voice has touched generations, are unbecoming of someone holding such a high office. It felt as though you believed you could buy art itself, when art is something that cannot be bought. Art is life, and life deserves to be respected.”The actor also defended Mehndi against allegations of alcohol consumption during his performance, stating that the singer does not drink and that he is aware of Mehndi’s ongoing health issues. “For your information, Daler Paaji does not consume alcohol. I have worked with him on Welcome to the Jungle and know that he has been facing health issues, with people doing their best to help him recover. Positions of power may come and go, but art will always hold a higher place. It deserves respect. God bless you,” Yadav added.The controversy began when Minister Uniyal interrupted Mehndi’s performance and questioned his singing. A video of the exchange circulated widely on social media, prompting various reactions.In the video, the minister can be heard questioning Mehndi’s ability to perform, saying he had been invited to entertain the audience and that Mehndi should respect his reputation as a well-known artist.After the incident, allegations emerged on social media claiming Mehndi was intoxicated and struggling to sing; however, these claims have not been independently verified.Minister Uniyal later told ANI that he questioned the singer because he believed Mehndi was lip-syncing rather than singing live. He also claimed the singer had been paid Rs 35 lakh for the performance and expressed dissatisfaction with how the show was conducted.Following the controversy, several singers, including Mika Singh and Badshah, have publicly supported Daler Mehndi.
Rajpal Yadav supports Daler Mehndi, criticises minister’s remarks at Uttarakhand event
