Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has called for dialogue to resolve the controversy over singer Daler Mehndi's performance at a state government event.
According to the Uttarakhand Chief Minister's Office, Dhami spoke to Mika Singh over the phone on Thursday and stressed the importance of resolving differences in a cordial atmosphere. He also highlighted Uttarakhand's tradition of welcoming artists.
The CMO said, “The Chief Minister stated that any misunderstanding or difference of opinion should be resolved through mutual dialogue in a cordial atmosphere. He emphasized that Uttarakhand has always upheld the spirit of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava'.”
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Dhami added that artists from India and across the world are welcomed in Uttarakhand and said the state government remains committed to respecting art, culture and artists.
The chief minister also referred to Uniyal's clarification.
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He said, “The Minister himself stated yesterday that he was unaware of the individual's poor health; the Minister has already come forward to address the matter.”
Dhami added, “These are all distinguished artists. Uttarakhand is a land that honors writers, artists, and scholars alike. Regarding the situation that unfolded due to public pressure at the time, I believe that since the Minister has now issued a statement himself, he has clarified that he had no such intention. Therefore, I think everyone should now consider this matter closed.”
What Happened Between Subodh Uniyal And Daler Mehndi?
The controversy began on Sunday night, October 18, at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair, popularly known as the Kunjapuri Mela, in Narendra Nagar, Tehri Garhwal, where Mehndi was performing during Navratri celebrations.
Uniyal walked onto the stage during the performance and questioned Mehndi about his condition. In a video that went viral, the minister accused the singer of lip-syncing and questioned whether he was under the influence of alcohol. Mehndi, who appeared to be struggling to speak and perform, was heard saying “sorry”.
The 59-year-old singer is known for songs including “Tunak Tunak Tun”, “Bolo Ta Ra” and “Ho Jayegi Balle Balle”. Uniyal also claimed that Mehndi had received an advance payment of Rs 35 lakh. The allegation that Mehndi was intoxicated has not been independently verified.
Mika Singh Demands Apology
Mika Singh had earlier demanded an apology from Uniyal and urged Dhami to intervene. In a post on Thursday, he said the minister should have appreciated Mehndi for agreeing to perform after another artiste, Sunanda Sharma, fell ill.
Mika said, “If there has been any mistake on your part, you should acknowledge your mistake and apologise to Daler Mehndi ji. Minister ji, there are many important tasks to serve the public.”
Subodh Uniyal Explains His Actions
Speaking to PTI on Wednesday, Uniyal said he was unaware of Mehndi's condition at the time.
Uniyal said, “Daler Mehndi, being a big name, was invited to the Kunjapuri Fair. But during the performance, it became apparent that he was only lip-syncing and not singing.”
He added, “Mehndi was not able to speak or walk. At that point, I thought he was under the influence of some substance. I don't know what, because a medical examination was not conducted.”
Uniyal maintained that an artist who is unwell or unfit to perform should inform the organisers beforehand and decline the engagement.
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