Mumbai, October 21, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Actor Rajpal Yadav has extended his support to singer Daler Mehndi amid the controversy surrounding the latter’s performance at a cultural event in Uttarakhand, saying the singer’s health has been deteriorating and people are trying to help him recover.
In a video message shared on social media, Rajpal criticised Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal for his alleged public humiliation of the veteran singer during the event.
“Hi friends, I am your Rajpal and as an art student, I would like to share something with you. The way a respected minister is in front of thousands of people has humiliated a legendary singer whose voice has served the country and the world for decades is unacceptable,” he said.
Rajpal further expressed shock over the minister’s reported remarks and alleged reference to physical punishment.
“The way a respected minister, in front of thousands of people, used such horrible words for a legendary singer whose voice has served the country and the world for decades, and even gave an example of beating, was shocking. Honourable Minister, this does not suit you,” he said.
Emphasising that artistic contributions cannot be measured in monetary terms, Rajpal said the incident gave the impression that art could be bought.
“It felt as if you had bought art. Art can never be bought. Art is a life. Respect life,” he said.
Rajpal also rejected the allegation that Daler Mehndi had consumed alcohol, saying he had worked with the singer in Welcome to the Jungle and was aware of his health concerns.
“And for your information, Mr Daler Mehndi does not drink alcohol. I have also worked with him in ‘Welcome to the Jungle’. His health is deteriorating, and everyone is trying to make him better as soon as possible,” he said.
Concluding his message, the actor called for respect for the legacy of artists and their contributions over generations.
“Art comes and goes. But the position always remains. And the position of art has been there for thousands of years. Respect the position of art. God bless you,” he added.
The controversy erupted on Sunday, October 18, during the annual Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. Daler Mehndi was performing at the cultural programme when Minister Subodh Uniyal reportedly walked onto the stage and criticised the singer’s performance, alleging that he was under the influence of alcohol and unable to sing properly.
The minister also reportedly questioned the performance in view of the fee said to have been paid to the singer.
Several artistes, including Daler Mehndi’s brother Mika Singh, actor Anupam Kher and comedian Kapil Sharma, have voiced support for the singer. They have cited his recent surgery and health concerns, urging people to respond with compassion rather than subjecting him to public humiliation.
Known for popular songs such as Tunak Tunak Tun and Bolo Ta Ra Ra, Daler Mehndi has enjoyed a career spanning decades. He has also ventured into acting with Welcome to the Jungle, which features Rajpal Yadav among its ensemble cast.
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