Dehradun: Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal reprimanded Punjabi singer Daler Mehndi on stage during a cultural evening, questioning his conduct and alleging that he was intoxicated.
After the incident, several celebrities came out in support of the singer. Daler's brother, singer Mika Singh, said Daler never drinks alcohol and demanded an apology from the minister.
Mika Singh also put forward his position on social media and defended his brother. Daler has delivered several popular songs in his career and performs at events across the country.
The row has raised questions over how artistes are treated at cultural events. The minister has not yet issued an official response to the demand.
Daler Mehndi won popularity with songs such as 'Tunak Tunak Tun' and is a leading figure in Punjabi and bhangra music. Incidents over how artistes are treated on stage often trigger debate. In Uttarakhand, several cultural events are held with the support of government agencies. Artistes are now asking that due respect be ensured at such programmes. The row has also triggered discussion about how cultural events are organised. Daler has not commented in detail on the incident, though his supporters have voiced unhappiness over the minister's conduct.
Some artistes' bodies have demanded clear norms for respectful treatment of performers on stage. Organisers of cultural events have been urged to be mindful as well. A response from the minister is awaited in the coming days.
The minister's remarks drew reactions in political circles too, with some urging restraint. The dignity of artistes, many said, is central to cultural events.