Singer Daler Mehndi Confronted by Uttarakhand Minister Subodh Uniyal Over Alleged Intoxication at Navratri Event
Bhangra star Daler Mehndi was confronted by Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal at a Navratri event in Tehri over unverified allegations of intoxication and lip-syncing. The incident, reported on October 19, 2026, has sparked debate, especially contrasting with Mehndi's past claims of being a teetotaler.
Bollywood's "Bolo Ta Ra Ra" hitmaker, Daler Mehndi, found himself in an unexpected spotlight recently when Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal publicly confronted him on stage. The incident, which unfolded during a Navratri cultural event at the Kunjapuri Mela in Tehri, has sparked considerable debate across social media and news platforms. Anjali Arora Viral Video: Was ‘Ramayan’ Actress Furious at DJ for Playing ‘Kacha Badam’ Song at Kanpur Event?.
Daler Mehndi's Kunjapuri Mela Incident
The dramatic exchange took place during Mehndi's live performance, where Minister Uniyal reportedly stepped onto the stage and questioned the singer's conduct. According to reports, Uniyal directly addressed Mehndi, stating, “You can't even speak properly, so how will you sing?” The minister's intervention came amid unverified allegations from locals suggesting Mehndi was performing under the influence of alcohol and possibly lip-syncing. A video of the heated confrontation has since gone viral, drawing widespread attention to the incident.
Minister's Stance on Devotional Decoram
Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal strongly objected to the alleged behaviour, emphasising the sacred nature of the Navratri celebrations. He highlighted that the event was dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga, and performing while under the influence of alcohol was entirely inappropriate for such a devotional occasion. This stern stance from the minister underscores the cultural and religious sensitivities surrounding public performances during festivals.
Daler Mehndi's Viral Video from Tehri, Uttarakhand
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Daler Mehndi's Past Statements and Other Controversies
Interestingly, the recent allegations stand in stark contrast to Daler Mehndi's past public statements. In June 2021, the veteran singer, who is 59 years old (born August 18, 1967), asserted that he is a teetotaler. He stated, “Since I am a teetotaler, I strongly condemn showcasing, promoting tobacco, alcohol or guns in songs”. This earlier declaration of his personal stance on alcohol has added another layer to the ongoing discussion surrounding the Kunjapuri Mela incident.
Beyond this, Mehndi has faced other legal challenges in his career. Notably, in July 2022, he was sentenced to two years of imprisonment in connection with a human trafficking case dating back to 2003. While not directly related to the current incident, these past events occasionally resurface in public discourse during new controversies involving the artist. Mika Singh Questions India’s Double Standards Towards Pakistani and Dubai Muslims.
The allegations of intoxication and lip-syncing at the Navratri event remain unverified. However, the public confrontation by a state minister has ignited conversations about celebrity conduct at religious events and the responsibilities that come with public platforms.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 19, 2026 06:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
