Badshah Defends Daler Mehndi Amid Controversy Over Uttarakhand Performance
Mumbai — Rapper Badshah has voiced his support for veteran singer Daler Mehndi following a controversy surrounding his performance at a religious festival in Uttarakhand, criticizing the public humiliation of an artist who has made significant contributions to Indian music.
In a message shared on Instagram Stories, Badshah described Mehndi as a musical legend and said that criticism should not come at the expense of an artist’s dignity.
“Daler Mehndi paaji is a legend. Period. You can express disappointment. But publicly humiliating an artist who has given so much to our music industry is extremely disheartening. Legends deserve dignity, especially when they’re vulnerable. Respect, always,” Badshah wrote.
His comments followed an incident at the Kunjapuri Fair in Uttarakhand on October 18, when state Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal interrupted Mehndi’s performance during Navratri celebrations.
Uniyal reportedly accused the singer of consuming alcohol before taking the stage, triggering controversy and widespread discussion on social media.
The allegation has not been independently substantiated.
Several prominent musicians have since defended Mehndi, including singers Mika Singh and Palash Sen.
Sen shared an emotional message expressing his admiration for Mehndi and criticizing the negative reactions directed at him online.
“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,” Sen wrote.
He also expressed concern about the personal impact of online criticism, saying social media users often overlook the individual behind a public figure.
“Seeing the continuous trolling and negativity directed toward you hurts, but it also reminds me of how easy it is for people behind screens to forget the human being behind the icon. They see memes and headlines.. I see a man who has given his entire life, sweat, and soul to spreading happiness, uplifting culture, and serving through his art and philanthropy,” he added.
Mika Singh also defended Mehndi, declaring that he would stop singing if anyone could prove that the veteran performer consumes alcohol.
The controversy has prompted discussions about the treatment of established artists during public performances and the impact of criticism on social media.
Mehndi, widely recognized for popularizing Bhangra music among mainstream audiences, has enjoyed a career spanning decades and remains one of India’s most recognizable Punjabi performers.
Badshah’s statement adds to the growing support for Mehndi within the music industry as fellow artists call for respect and restraint amid the controversy. (Source: IANS)
