Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi has come under scrutiny following his performance at the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri fair in Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand. The incident took place on Sunday evening, during the final day of Navratri celebrations dedicated to Goddess Durga. The performance became controversial after local MLA and minister Subodh Uniyal raised objections to the singer’s behaviour on stage.
According to the allegations, Uniyal was unhappy with Mehndi’s performance, particularly because the singer was reportedly paid Rs 35 lakh for the event. The minister accused him of slurring his words, lip syncing instead of singing live and appearing to be under the influence of an intoxicating substance. These are allegations, and the available information does not independently establish that the singer had consumed any such substance.
Organisers explain why Daler Mehndi may have struggled
Following the incident, event organisers reportedly said that Mehndi’s team had informed them that the singer was feeling unwell. This explanation came amid reports of his recent health problems, including a stroke.
However, Uniyal stressed that performers invited to religious gatherings should respect the nature of the occasion and maintain appropriate conduct. The minister’s concerns reportedly included both the quality of the performance and the expectations associated with an event held during Navratri.
The reported Rs 35 lakh fee also became a major talking point, with questions being raised about the performance delivered in return for the payment.
Daler Mehndi controversy raises questions about live shows
The incident has started a wider discussion about the expectations placed on artists performing at religious fairs and public celebrations. Audiences generally expect singers to deliver the performances they have been hired for, while an artist’s health may also affect their ability to perform.
The key issue is whether the reported problems during the show were connected to health concerns or other circumstances. The available account does not establish the full details.
Daler Mehndi is known for his popular Punjabi songs and energetic stage performances. However, his appearance at the Maa Kunjapuri fair has drawn attention for reasons beyond his music.
The singer’s detailed response to Uniyal’s specific allegations was not included in the available account. Further clarification from the singer or organisers could help establish what happened during the performance.
उत्तराखंड के टिहरी गढ़वाल जिले के नरेंद्रनगर में प्रसिद्ध मां कुंजापुरी पर्यटन एवं विकास मेले (नवरात्रि के अवसर पर) में 18 अक्टूबर 2026 को पंजाबी गायक दलेर मेहंदी के लाइव कॉन्सर्ट के दौरान बड़ा विवाद हो गया था•बैकग्राउंड साउंड ट्रैक (डबिंग) का मामला: मंच पर कुछ गाने गाने के बाद पीछे से रिकॉर्डेड या डब किया हुआ गाना बजने लगा, जिसे लेकर दर्शकों ने नाराजगी जताई।•नशे के आरोप और मंत्री की नाराजगी: उत्तराखंड सरकार में कैबिनेट मंत्री और नरेंद्रनगर के विधायक सुबोध उनियालसीधे मंच पर पहुंच गए। उन्होंने धार्मिक और पावन नवरात्रि आयोजन की गरिमा का हवाला देते हुए दलेर मेहंदी पर शराब के नशे में होने और लाइव न गाने के आरोप लगाए।•मंच पर तीखी नोकझोंक: मंत्री सुबोध उनियाल ने माइक पर कहा, “आपसे बोला तो जा नहीं रहा, गाना क्या गाएंगे?” और कार्यक्रम पर आपत्ति जताई। इस घटना का वीडियो सोशल मीडिया पर काफी वायरल हुआ है।
— Pyara Uttarakhand प्यारा उत्तराखंड (@PyaraUKofficial) October 20, 2026

