Social media influencer and makeup artist Mad Sandhu was shot and killed in Amritsar, India on Saturday, according to multiple news outlets including BBC Hindi and Atalhind. The incident occurred as Sandhu was getting his car washed on Loharka Road, and police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Who Was Mad Sandhu?
Madhusudan Sandhu, known professionally as Mad Sandhu, was a popular social media influencer, makeup artist, and fashion stylist, reported TheOpenPress. Sandhu was also openly LGBTQ+ and frequently discussed related topics on his platforms, as noted by ABP News and Hindustan.
The Shooting and Initial Investigation
Two unidentified assailants on a motorcycle opened fire on Sandhu while he was near his car at a car wash on Loharka Road. He was rushed to a hospital but died en route.
Claims of Responsibility and Potential Motives
Following the murder, a post surfaced on Facebook claiming responsibility for the attack, allegedly from Goldy Dhillon, a member of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, as reported by ABP News. The post reportedly accused Sandhu of corrupting the youth and issued a warning to schools that invited him as a guest. However, police have not yet confirmed the authenticity of the post or any connection to the Bishnoi gang.
Sandhu’s Background and Career
According to Atalhind and NewsBytes, Sandhu began his career in the fashion industry, working as a stylist and assistant costume designer in both Punjab and Mumbai. He later opened his own unisex salon and makeup academy in Amritsar. He also appeared in Punjabi films, including “Oye Bhole Oye,” and created content for digital platforms.
Police Investigation and Ongoing Concerns
Police have registered a case against unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants, as reported by Jagran. They have collected over 37 CCTV footage recordings from the area and are investigating potential leads. Concerns regarding law and order in Punjab were raised by Congress MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla, who cited this incident and another recent murder in the region, highlighting a perceived collapse of the law and order situation (ABP News).
Social Media Reaction
The murder has sparked widespread shock and grief on social media, with many expressing condolences and outrage.
Previous Threats and LGBTQ+ Advocacy
Hindustan reported that Sandhu had previously received threats and faced criticism for his open discussion of LGBTQ+ issues. He had reportedly responded to negative comments by stating, God has made me the way I am
. He had also received a threatening phone call in July 2026 from Nihang Jathedar Manpreet Singh Khalsa, who questioned Sandhu’s content and attire, according to ThePrint Hindi.