Daler Mehndi Row: Mika Singh Speaks With Uttarakhand CM

Dehradun, October 22: The alleged mistreatment of singer Daler Mehndi at a programme in Uttarakhand has drawn attention across the music fraternity. After Mika Singh openly expressed support for Daler Mehndi, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has now responded by speaking to him directly.

Chief Minister Dhami revealed that he had called Mika Singh and discussed the matter. In a post on the social media platform X, he said that misunderstandings should be dispelled through dialogue and mutual respect.

Dhami stated that Uttarakhand, known as Devbhoomi, continues the great Indian tradition of “Atithi Devo Bhava.” He said that artists visiting the state are always welcomed with an open heart and honoured accordingly.

The controversy is linked to a government event in Uttarakhand. Reports allege that a state minister addressed Daler Mehndi harshly on stage.

Before the Chief Minister’s response, Mika Singh had posted a lengthy message on X voicing his displeasure. He pointed to the caution exercised in schools when it comes to scolding children and asked whether it was right for a minister to speak so sharply to a performer invited on stage.

In a message tagging Dhami, Mika Singh said he admired the Chief Minister and loved Uttarakhand, but insisted that treating an artist in such a manner was not appropriate. He highlighted that Daler Mehndi had come to fulfil his commitment and performed for one hour and thirty minutes.

Mika Singh also noted that singer Sunanda Sharma had been booked for the event but could not make it for some reason. Daler Mehndi, he said, took on the responsibility and entertained the audience for about ninety minutes.

He concluded by reminding that artists are human and deserve respect and dignity. Any complaint, he said, could have been raised politely. Calling the Chief Minister a brother figure, he expressed hope that the issue would be understood and that steps would be taken so that no artist’s dignity is hurt.