Mika Singh urges Subodh Uniyal to apologise to Daler Mehndi

Singer Mika Singh has urged Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal to apologise to his brother, singer Daler Mehndi, over alleged remarks made during a public event. The call to resolve the controversy followed a phone conversation with Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.

Mika Singh described Dhami as “a wonderful person, incredibly down-to-earth” who spoke with warmth and kindness. He stated that Daler Mehndi had asked him not to prolong the issue. Stay connected Make The News Mill your preferred source See more TNM stories when you search for news on Google.

Earlier on October 23, Chief Minister Dhami telephoned Daler Mehndi to inquire about his well-being and discuss recent events. The Chief Minister emphasised that Uttarakhand upholds the tradition of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (the guest is equivalent to God), where art, culture, and artists are welcomed and respected, according to the Chief Minister’s Office.

Mika Singh reiterated that despite the family’s intention to move past the incident, he believes Subodh Uniyal should apologise for allegedly labelling Daler Mehndi an alcoholic, which could damage the singer’s reputation. “It would be the right thing to do if you could call Daler Ji and apologise.

Because you have significantly tarnished his reputation by labelling him an alcoholic, and across the world, many people might actually assume he is one. So, I still hope for that,” he said. Mika Singh revealed that Daler Mehndi was deeply affected by the controversy, breaking down in tears when Mika called him the day following the incident.

Mika said he was shocked and unsure how to respond, believing his brother had done nothing wrong. At a press conference on October 23, Mika said he learned of the controversy after completing a show in Surat and that he was disturbed by the incident. He recounted telling Daler Mehndi that he should not have agreed to perform if unwell and that he should have responded firmly if spoken to disrespectfully by the minister.

However, Daler Mehndi reportedly told Mika, “Mika, you know I cannot speak to anyone by shouting.” Mika Singh stated the family holds no personal grudge against the minister and does not intend to pursue legal action but maintained that the alleged behaviour was inappropriate. “We hold no personal grudge.

We are not thugs or troublemakers looking to file lawsuits, but what you did was wrong. Daler Bhai chose to remain silent, and the public’s response to his restraint has been overwhelming... I speak with Daler Bhai Ji every single day.

He is doing much better now; he is fit and fine,” he said. Mika Singh also criticised the language allegedly used by Subodh Uniyal during the event, which included remarks about singer Maninder Buttar, who performed prior to Daler Mehndi. Urging the minister to treat artists with respect, Mika Singh reminded him of his responsibilities as a public representative: “You are a public servant; you are not the public’s boss.

Don’t throw orders around at the public. When asking for votes, you fold your hands, and afterwards, you kick people around? Don’t do that, man.” He added that artists regularly perform at events organised by ministers and chief ministers and are generally treated with respect.

The controversy began when Uniyal interrupted Mehndi during his performance at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in Narendra Nagar, New Tehri. A video of the incident went viral, showing the minister questioning the singer’s ability and telling him to respect his reputation.

Following the incident, allegations emerged on social media claiming Mehndi was intoxicated and struggling to sing. Uniyal told ANI that he questioned Mehndi because he believed the singer was lip-syncing and stated Mehndi had been paid Rs 35 lakh for the performance. The minister expressed dissatisfaction with how the show was conducted.

Mika Singh clarified that Daler Mehndi has been unwell for the past two years, is still recovering, and does not consume alcohol. He defended his brother against the allegations, noting that many performers use backing tracks without facing similar scrutiny. In a video message on Instagram, Mika revealed that Daler Mehndi recently underwent an operation.

Demanding an apology, Mika Singh wrote on X: “Good morning! I have immense respect for the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttarakhand, @pushkardhamiji. He personally called me regarding the matter involving Daler Bhai, and I truly appreciate his gesture.

I know Dhami Saab very well. He is a humble, down-to-earth person, and I have great respect for him. My only humble request to him is to please ask Shri @SubodhUniyal1ji to make a simple video clarifying his statement and apologising to Daler Bhai for saying that he was drunk during the performance.” He added: “I believe misunderstandings can happen, but they can also be resolved gracefully.

I hope this small gesture will help put the matter to rest and ensure that Daler Bhai’s dignity and reputation are respected. I have faith in Dhami Saab’s understanding and leadership.”