LGBTQ+ advocate, influencer Mad Sandhu shot dead in Amritsar: What happened on Loharka Road?

Amritsar: Punjabi makeup artist and social media influencer Mad Sandhu, whose real name was Madhusudan, was shot dead by two unidentified motorcycle-borne men in Amritsar on Saturday evening, police said.

The incident took place on Loharka Road at around 6 pm. According to police, the attackers opened fire at Sandhu and fled the spot.

Sandhu sustained two gunshot wounds and was rushed to Fortis Hospital in critical condition. He succumbed to his injuries during treatment, police said.

A video purportedly showing Sandhu lying injured on the road has also surfaced on social media. The footage has not been independently verified.

The identity of the attackers and the motive behind the shooting remain under investigation. Police said they have gathered some leads and are working to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Also read | Man dies after 43rd-floor jump at Noida’s Supernova, body split into pieces

Police launch investigation

Commissionerate Police Amritsar reached the spot after receiving information about the firing and inspected the scene.

Police have deployed multiple teams to investigate the killing. According to DCP PS Virk, investigators have gathered some leads and efforts are underway to solve the case at the earliest.

Following the recording of statements from the family, police registered an FIR and began a preliminary investigation.

The motive behind the attack and the identities of those involved are yet to be established.
Also read | Children at the protest? NHRC seeks answers over CJP’s Mumbai rally

Who was Mad Sandhu?

Sandhu was known for his work as a makeup artist, fashion stylist and social media influencer. He had built a significant following through Instagram reels and other social media content covering makeup, fashion, luxury looks and lifestyle.

He began his professional career in the fashion industry, working as a stylist and assistant costume designer before gaining wider recognition through social media. He also appeared on podcasts, where he spoke candidly about makeup, the film industry and gender-related issues.

Sandhu was known for speaking openly about LGBTQ+ acceptance, gender issues and social norms. He had publicly spoken about being gay and had faced homophobic abuse and trolling on social media.

He had also faced public criticism and backlash over his content style and fashion choices.

Sandhu acted in the Punjabi film Oye Bhole Oye.

Earlier this year, an audio conversation allegedly involving Sandhu and Nihang jathedar Manpreet Singh Khalsa surfaced online, triggering controversy and debate over Sandhu's social media content and public image.

Police are continuing to investigate the shooting, including the identity of the attackers and the motive behind the killing.

(With agency inputs)