Uttarakhand Minister Subodh Uniyal apologizes to singer Daler Mehndi

Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal has issued a telephonic apology to singer Daler Mehndi following a controversy at the Kunjapuri Devi Fair in Tehri Garhwal. The dispute began on October 18 when Uniyal interrupted Mehndi’s live performance, alleging that the singer was intoxicated and lip-syncing rather than singing live.

Following the incident, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami intervened by speaking with the Mehndi brothers and expressing regret on behalf of the minister. In response to the apology, singer Mika Singh, Daler Mehndi’s brother, released a statement through his team praising the gesture. The statement emphasized that respecting the dignity of senior artists is essential and expressed hope that the matter could be resolved with mutual respect.

While some reports indicated a resolution, conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the minister's stance. While multiple sources and Mika Singh’s team confirm a telephonic apology took place, other reports suggest Uniyal has denied apologizing, instead arguing that Mehndi should have informed organizers if he was unwell and questioning the value of the performance provided.