Amid the recent political and public controversy surrounding famous Punjabi pop singer Daler Mehndi, veteran Bollywood comedian Rajpal Yadav has stood firmly in his support. Expressing a sharp reaction to the alleged statement given by a minister of Uttarakhand government linking Daler Mehndi's name with alcohol or drugs, Rajpal Yadav clarified that Daler Paaji is a very virtuous, disciplined and religious person, who does not even touch alcohol. Leaders holding responsible and constitutional positions in public life should have full knowledge of the facts before making unrestrained comments on the image of any eminent national artist. After this open revelation of Rajpal Yadav, a new debate has started on this issue in art, music and political circles.
The controversy started when during a public event or press conference held in Uttarakhand, a cabinet minister of the state, while commenting on alcohol and social conduct, for example, mentioned the name of pop singer Daler Mehndi in an inappropriate context. As soon as the video of this irresponsible statement of the minister went viral on social media, Daler Mehndi's fans, Sikh community and artists associated with the music world had expressed their deep displeasure. People said that it is wrong to blame without any basis a legendary singer who has given Indian music recognition at the global level and who has been playing an active role in everything from environmental protection to tree plantation campaigns.
Giving his blunt opinion on this entire incident through media and social media, Rajpal Yadav said that he has known Daler Mehndi very closely for the last several decades. Rajpal said, “Daler Paaji's entire life has been dedicated to discipline and the practice of music. He never even touches alcohol. It is extremely unfortunate to make such light and baseless comments about a person who makes millions of people dance on stage with just his positive energy and tunes.”
Rajpal Yadav, while giving advice to the concerned minister of Uttarakhand without directly naming him, said that when a person is a minister in the government or holds a high position, his speech and words have a big impact in the society. In such a situation, politicians should not harm the honor and dignity of any eminent artist for cheap popularity or to garner applause in their speeches. He also added that artists have no political boundaries, they are the cultural heritage of the country, hence they should be respected.
This statement of Rajpal Yadav in favor of Daler Mehndi has also been strongly supported by other artists and social media users. Many well-known musicians and singers said that Daler Mehndi has always given the message of drug-free and virtuous lifestyle. His energetic songs are in no way meant to misrepresent his personal lifestyle. As the controversy escalated, now opposition parties and social organizations have also intensified their demand for the Uttarakhand Minister to publicly express regret and apologize for his irresponsible statement.