A telephonic conversation between Punjab-based makeup artist and social media influencer Med Sandhu and Nihang leader Manpreet Singh Khalsa has gone viral, triggering fresh discussions on social media over identity, personal expression, and cultural values.
The audio-video clip, widely circulated online, captures a detailed exchange in which the Nihang leader questions Med Sandhu over his earlier social media content and appearance, while urging him to publicly distance himself from content that, according to him, could influence young people in the wrong direction.
During the conversation, Manpreet Singh Khalsa acknowledged Med Sandhu’s recent claim that he had changed his style and approach but insisted that a public clarification was necessary. He expressed concern that some of Sandhu’s earlier videos continued to circulate online and alleged that such content could encourage impressionable youth to imitate similar behaviour.
Responding to the concerns, Med Sandhu maintained that he had already made significant changes in his lifestyle and social media presence. He claimed that old videos were repeatedly being reshared by others, creating fresh controversies despite his efforts to move on.
The conversation also touched upon Sandhu’s name, clothing and public image. Khalsa suggested that Sandhu should record a video stating that he no longer intended to create content that could negatively influence Punjab’s youth or culture. Sandhu responded by saying he was currently in Mumbai attending a professional makeup course and would be willing to discuss the matter after returning.
At one point, Khalsa questioned Sandhu’s feminine mannerisms, to which the influencer replied that he was simply living according to how he had been created and had already changed aspects of his appearance that he personally felt needed to be changed.
Sandhu also referred to an earlier controversy surrounding a proposed Pride-related event in Amritsar, claiming that he had publicly opposed its organisation there but was nevertheless criticised. He maintained that he had never encouraged others to adopt any particular lifestyle through his videos.
Towards the end of the conversation, both sides adopted a relatively conciliatory tone. Khalsa clarified that his objection was not personal but centred on what he viewed as preserving Punjab’s social values. Sandhu, in turn, said he was prepared to issue a statement clarifying his present position and distancing himself from the older content that continues to circulate online.
The viral recording has generated mixed reactions across social media, with users expressing differing views on issues of personal freedom, cultural identity and the responsibilities of public influencers. Neither side has issued any additional official statement following the circulation of the clip.
