Daler Mehndi Row: Ila Arun Calls Treatment Disrespectful

Singer and actress Ila Arun has spoken out in defence of Daler Mehndi, calling the treatment he received during a performance in Uttarakhand disrespectful and condemnable.

The controversy stems from an incident at the Kunjapuri Mela in Tehri district, where the singer's performance was reportedly interrupted on October 18. In a conversation with a news agency on Thursday, Ila said that the film fraternity, audiences and music community were distressed by the way he was allegedly treated in front of an audience.

"We are all very upset and angry. Daler is more than a friend to us. He is like an elder brother and a true legend. He has contributed immensely to Sufi and Punjabi music. I don't know exactly what happened on that stage, but the allegations against him and the way he was spoken to were not right."

Ila suggested that organisers or sponsors, if worried about the singer's condition, could have approached his secretary privately. They could have conveyed that he might not be fit to perform, without making the matter a public spectacle.

"Organisers have a duty to handle such moments with sensitivity and care for everyone. Anything that needed correction could have been done away from the stage."

Describing artists as sensitive individuals, she said the episode had shocked and saddened her. She also worried about the singer's health and warned that the situation could have had grave consequences.

"The way he was treated on stage was humiliating and deeply objectionable. There is no excuse for such conduct. If there were concerns or disagreements, they could have been settled backstage. Daler has millions of admirers. Imagine if he had suffered a heart attack. He is an extraordinary artist."

Ila noted that if an artist is unwell, it is best not to perform, but insisted the situation should have been managed with dignity. She shared that Daler Mehndi had taught her that respect comes first and that an artist's real treasure is the affection of listeners. She believed that when self-respect is at stake, an artist should choose not to perform.

She also offered words of comfort to the singer, asking him not to take the matter to heart and assuring him that his insult was theirs too, and that they stood with him.

According to reports, Uttarakhand cabinet minister and local MLA Subodh Uniyal stopped the performance, alleging that Daler Mehndi had come on stage after consuming alcohol at a programme dedicated to Goddess Durga.

Members of the entertainment world have responded to the incident, with several artists voicing support for the singer and expressing concern over the way he was treated publicly.