Mad Sandhu death: Makeup artist-influencer known for LGBTQ+ advocacy dies after fatal shooting attack

Punjabi makeup artist and social media influencer Mad Sandhu was shot dead in Amritsar on Saturday, with police investigating the circumstances surrounding the killing and trying to identify the attackers. Sandhu, whose full name was Madhusudan, was allegedly attacked by two unidentified men riding a motorcycle and died while being taken to hospital.

According to NDTV, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Sirivennela said, “Two unidentified men fired at him around 6 pm.” Police reached the spot after the shooting and launched an investigation into the incident.

Commissioner of Police Harmanbir Singh Gill said Sandhu had given his car for washing when he was attacked. Gill said the police had made progress in the case and were working to identify those responsible.


“Police have solid leads and we will soon nab the culprits and ensure exemplary punishment for them,” Gill said.

Sandhu lived in a residential colony that falls under the jurisdiction of Amritsar Rural police, according to the police.

Video of Mad Sandhu after shooting circulates online

A video showing Sandhu lying injured on a road after the shooting has also been circulating widely on social media. Times Now Navbharat reported on the video, although it had not been independently verified.

Sandhu had stepped out for an errand and was attacked after giving his car for washing. He reportedly sustained a gunshot wound and fell on the road. People at the spot attempted to take him to a hospital, but he died while being taken there.

Police are examining the circumstances of the attack. Gill said police were probing the case from different angles to establish the actual motive behind Sandhu's death. The identity of the attackers and the reason for the shooting have not yet been officially established.

Who was Mad Sandhu?

Sandhu was known for his work as a makeup artist and stylist and had developed a substantial following on social media through Instagram reels and other viral videos. His content included makeup, fashion, styling, luxury looks and lifestyle.

However, his online presence went beyond beauty and fashion. Sandhu frequently expressed his views on the film industry, gender issues, LGBTQ+ acceptance and social attitudes, making him a recognisable personality among his social media followers.

He began his professional career in the fashion industry, working as a stylist and assistant costume designer before becoming more widely known through social media. He also appeared on podcasts where he discussed topics including makeup, movies and social issues.

Sandhu was open about being gay

Sandhu had also spoken publicly about his sexuality and had faced homophobic comments and trolling online.

Responding to criticism over his identity, Sandhu had said, “God had made me the way I am.” He continued to speak about LGBTQ+ acceptance and remained open about being gay despite facing criticism on social media.

Mad Sandhu's past controversy with Nihang Jathedar

In the recent past, Sandhu had also been involved in a controversy with Nihang Jathedar Manpreet Singh Khalsa over some of his social media content, clothing and older videos.

The Nihang side had objected to some of Sandhu's online activities and warned him about content it claimed could have a negative influence on Punjab's culture and youth.

Sandhu had subsequently said that he had changed and would not repeat mistakes from his past. He also alleged that older videos of his were being reshared to create controversy around him.