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Daler Mehndi has received support from Palash Sen, Shaan, Alisha Chinai, Kapil Sharma and others amid the controversy over his Uttarakhand performance.

‘Even Legends Can Fall Ill’: Palash Sen, Kapil Sharma, Others Defend Daler Mehndi After Viral Stage Incident
Daler Mehndi has found support from across the entertainment industry amid the recent controversy over his performance in Uttarakhand during Navratri celebration. After Mika Singh defended Daler Mehndi, singers Harshdeep Kaur, Shaan and Alisha Chinai, along with Kapil Sharma, Neil Nitin Mukesh and Palash Sen, have also spoken out in his support.
The controversy erupted after Uttarakhand minister Subodh Uniyal confronted Daler Mehndi on stage during a performance at the Kunjapuri Mela, questioning his performance and alleging that he was lip syncing. It was also alleged that he was under the influence of alcohol. The video of the minister slamming the Punjabi singer went viral on social media. Mika Singh was among the first to defend Daler Mehndi, denying the allegations about alcohol consumption and saying that his brother had been dealing with health issues. Since then, several celebrities have echoed his sentiments, and have come out in support of Daler Mehndi.
Harshdeep Kaur, Shaan Call Daler Mehndi A Legend
Reacting to Mika Singh’s video, singer Harshdeep Kaur expressed her belief that Daler Mehndi may have been unwell on the day of the performance. “Daler Pahji is a Legend. It definitely seems like he was unwell that day otherwise when on stage…he not just sings…he roars!!” she wrote.
Shaan also came out in support of the singer, celebrating his contribution to music. “Daler Paaji is the Original Rockstar !!!! He has shown the World how to Rock n Roar!!!” he commented.
Alisha Chinai Questions The Criticism
Singer Alisha Chinai was more direct in her response, questioning the manner in which Daler Mehndi was treated during the event.
“Daler Mehndi Rocked your world with his Powerful n Infectious Music !!! He doesn’t need to prove he can sing to anyone or seek any Validation,” she wrote.
Addressing the criticism of his performance, Chinai also pointed out that backing tracks are commonly used during live shows. “We all use Backing tracks n Minus one tracks on our Shows !! How dare anyone come onstage n insult him in this Manner !!!!” she added.
She went on to describe the incident as an example of “Tasteless Behaviour”. “It Speaks of Tasteless Behaviour n Reflects poorly of the Minister on the contrary !!! Daler pajii we all love you,” she wrote.
Kapil Sharma Mentions Daler Mehndi’s Health
Kapil Sharma also urged people to show greater understanding, revealing that the singer had undergone serious surgery. “Daler Mehndi paji went through some serious surgery which people don’t know. All we need to be little kinder towards other. We don’t know what someone is going through,” he wrote.
Thanking Mika Singh for clarifying the situation, Kapil added, “may god bless Daler paaji. We love you Daler paji.”
Neil Nitin Mukesh Sends Love To The Family
Actor Neil Nitin Mukesh also expressed his support for the singer and his family. “Love and respect for the entire family. What a beautiful and dignified artist family you are paaji,” he commented.
Palash Sen Says Daler Mehndi Never Drinks Alcohol
Among the most heartfelt messages came from singer Palash Sen, who shared a lengthy note describing Daler Mehndi as a brother and speaking about the impact of the online trolling.
“Dear Daler, to the world, you are a legend, a pioneer, and the king of Bhangra who brought joy and unforgettable music to millions across the globe. But to me, you are simply my brother- a person with a heart far bigger and kinder than most will ever know,” he wrote.
He said it was painful to see the singer being mocked online, adding that people often forget the human being behind a public figure.
“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,” he wrote.
Palash Sen also spoke about Mehndi’s contribution through music and philanthropy, saying that online criticism could not erase his legacy or the kindness he had shown others.
Urging people to approach the situation with empathy, he added, “To everyone quick to judge or laugh behind every famous face is a real person. A fallible, vulnerable human. Please look at him with love and respect always. He is a gem of our country.”
In the final slide of his post, Sen made a categorical statement about the allegation that had fuelled much of the controversy: “Daler paaji doesn’t touch alcohol. Never did. Never will.”
What Mika Singh Said About His Brother Daler Mehndi
On October 20, Mika Singh came out in support of Daler Mehndi, clarifying that the latter does not consume alcohol. He also said that it was disappointing to see such allegations.
He said that Daler Mehndi had been unwell for the past 2 years and recently underwent a major surgery, suggesting his health condition may have affected his performance. Mika challenged anyone who had seen Daler drinking alcohol to come forward, declaring that he would quit singing if someone could substantiate the claim.
October 20, 2026, 14:43 IST