Punjabi Influencer Mad Sandhu Shot Dead In Amritsar, Police Probe Motive, Hunt For Killers

Punjabi social media influencer and makeup artist Mad Sandhu, whose real name was Madhusudan, was shot dead by two unidentified motorcycle-borne assailants in Amritsar on Saturday evening, triggering a police probe into the killing.

The incident took place around 6 pm on Loharka Road, where Sandhu had gone to collect his car from a washing centre. According to police, the attackers opened fire at him at close range and fled on a motorcycle. Around two to three rounds were reportedly fired.

Sandhu suffered multiple bullet injuries and collapsed on the road. He was rushed to a private hospital but succumbed to his injuries. Police have registered an FIR based on a statement from his family and launched an investigation.

Amritsar Police Commissioner Harmanbir Singh Gill said investigators had “solid leads” and expressed confidence that the accused would be arrested soon. Police teams are examining CCTV footage, recording statements and investigating multiple angles to determine the motive.

Sandhu, who had more than two lakh Instagram followers, was known for his makeup artistry, fashion styling and outspoken views on gender-related issues. He founded a unisex salon in Amritsar and also ran beauty academies. He had appeared in the Punjabi film "Oye Bhole Oye".

His social media presence had also attracted homophobic trolling and criticism over his fashion choices and content.

A few months ago, Sandhu was involved in a controversy after a Nihang Sikh allegedly confronted and warned him over some of his social media content, clothing and older videos. Sandhu later said he had changed his content and alleged that old videos were being recirculated. Police are examining the controversy, but no link between it and the murder has been established so far.