Entertainment · Music · 1 hr ago
FWICE backs Daler Mehndi after minister’s accusation at Uttarakhand event
FWICE has backed singer Daler Mehndi after a dispute during his performance at a fair in New Tehri, Uttarakhand.
On October 18, state minister Subodh Uniyal interrupted the performance and accused Mehndi of being under the influence of alcohol.
Mehndi’s health has become part of the dispute: FWICE said he had health issues and was recovering from surgery.
The federation wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami.
FWICE urged officials to handle concerns with compassion and discretion, rather than publicly reprimanding an artist.
The incident drew support for Mehndi from other entertainers, but no response from the officials is given.
Singers and actor Kapil Sharma have backed Daler Mehndi after a Uttarakhand minister interrupted his performance and accused him of being under the influence of alcohol.
The incident took place on October 18 at a Navratri event in Uttarakhand, and a video of the confrontation went viral on social media.
Several supporters said Mehndi may have been unwell, while the Federation of Western India Cine Employees said he was recovering from surgery and was not a consumer of alcohol.
FWICE wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, urging sensitivity and professional treatment of artists.
- Who
- Singer Daler Mehndi, Uttarakhand minister Subodh Uniyal, and supporters including singers and actor Kapil Sharma.
- What
- Uniyal interrupted Mehndi’s performance and accused him of performing under the influence of alcohol. Singers, Kapil Sharma and FWICE supported Mehndi.
- When
- The performance was interrupted on October 18. FWICE’s letters were reported on October 21, 2026.
- Where
- At the Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in New Tehri, Uttarakhand.
- Why
- Uniyal alleged that Mehndi was under the influence of alcohol. Supporters said he may have been unwell and urged people to treat him with compassion.
Subodh Uniyal
Daler Mehndi’s supporters
Allegation
Subodh Uniyal
Uniyal accused Mehndi of performing under the influence of alcohol.
Daler Mehndi’s supporters
Supporters rejected or challenged the implication that he was drunk; FWICE said he was not a consumer of alcohol.
Condition
Subodh Uniyal
Not stated.
Daler Mehndi’s supporters
Some supporters suggested Mehndi may have been unwell; FWICE said he was recovering from surgery.
Treatment at the event
Subodh Uniyal
Not stated beyond Uniyal interrupting the performance.
Daler Mehndi’s supporters
Supporters and FWICE criticised the public treatment of Mehndi and called for compassion and sensitivity.
Subodh Uniyal interrupted Daler Mehndi’s performance at a Navratri event and accused him of performing under the influence of alcohol.
A video of the confrontation went viral on social media, drawing criticism and support for Mehndi.
Singers and actor Kapil Sharma publicly backed Mehndi.
FWICE wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami in support of Mehndi.
- Performer
- Daler Mehndi
- Minister
- Subodh Uniyal, Uttarakhand cabinet minister and MLA
- Event
- Siddhpeeth Maa Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair
- Location
- New Tehri, Uttarakhand
- Performance date
- October 18
- FWICE letters
- Addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami
5 sources
Daler Mehndi controversy: FWICE writes to PM Modi
FWICE Writes To PM Modi Supporting Daler Mehndi Amid 'Drunk' Video Controversy
Daler Mehndi 'Drunk' Video Row: Cine Workers' Body Writes To PM Modi And Uttarakhand Chief Minister Over Singer's Public Humiliation
Palash Sen, Kapil Sharma back Daler Mehndi amid performance row: ‘Went through serious surgery’
What people are saying
Shri Daler Mehndi is a celebrated name in Indian music whose songs and performances have earned him widespread recognition across generations.
Everyone has a bad day or ill health. Even legends can fall ill, but can’t disappoint their fans by not showing up. You showed up and tried to do your best.
Daler Pahji is a Legend. It definitely seems like he was unwell that day otherwise when on stage…he not just sings…he roars!!
Daler Paaji is the Original Rockstar!!!! He has shown the World how to Rock n Roar!!!