Jimmy Shergill Defends Daler Mehndi Amid Performance Controversy
Actor Jimmy Shergill speaks out against mocking Daler Mehndis health issues following a controversial performance in Uttarakhand.
Mumbai, October 23 (Daily Kiran) : Actor and producer Jimmy Shergill has voiced his support for singer Daler Mehndi, who recently faced backlash during a performance in Uttarakhand. Speaking at an event in Mumbai, Shergill emphasized that mocking someone’s medical condition is inappropriate.
In an exclusive conversation, Shergill shared his long-standing friendship with Mehndi, describing him as a deeply spiritual person who, to his knowledge, abstains from alcohol. He noted that Mehndi had likely undergone surgery, which may have affected his performance. “I’ve been through similar experiences where individuals struggle with health issues,” Shergill remarked, stressing the need for sensitivity in such matters.
The controversy erupted on October 19 during the Kunjapuri Tourism and Development Fair in New Tehri, Uttarakhand, where Mehndi was invited to perform. State Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal expressed his dissatisfaction with Mehndi’s performance, questioning how he could sing if he was struggling to speak. The minister accused Mehndi of arriving intoxicated and lip-syncing instead of singing live.
Following the incident, Mehndi’s brother and fellow singer Mika Singh came to his defense, stating that Daler was unwell and recovering from a recent surgery. He also challenged the allegations of alcohol consumption. Veteran actor Anupam Kher added that he has known Mehndi for 25 to 30 years and has never seen him drink. Kher suggested that any grievances regarding the performance should have been addressed privately and respectfully.
In light of the controversy, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, expressing their concern. They urged that any issues with an artist’s performance at public events should be handled with understanding and sensitivity, rather than publicly reprimanding the performer.
In response, Uniyal clarified that if Mehndi was indeed unwell, he should have informed the organizers beforehand. He stated that he bore no personal ill will towards the singer and did not intend to cause any harm.
