Openly queer makeup artist, entrepreneur and social media influencer Mad Sandhu has died after being shot in the northern Indian city of Amritsar.
Sandhu, whose real name was Madhusudan Sandhu, was found seriously injured on Loharka Road following the attack. They were taken to a private hospital for treatment but later died from their injuries.
Police have launched an investigation into the killing and are examining CCTV footage from the area. No arrests have been announced and the motive for the shooting remains unclear.
A video said to have been recorded shortly after the attack has circulated widely on social media, showing Sandhu lying injured on the roadside as members of the public attempted to help them.
Known for their beauty and lifestyle content, Sandhu had built a substantial online following across Instagram and YouTube, where they shared makeup tutorials, fashion content and personal reflections on identity and social issues. They also used their platform to speak openly about LGBTQ+ issues in India.
Sandhu described themself online as a makeup artist, entrepreneur and artist, and was the founder of Mane Lane Unisex Salon in Amritsar. Before establishing themself in the beauty industry, they worked as a stylist and assistant costume designer on projects in Punjab and Mumbai, later branching out into modelling, acting and digital content creation.
They also appeared in Punjabi entertainment productions, including the film Oye Bhole Oye.
As one of a relatively small number of openly queer influencers with a significant following in the region, Sandhu's visibility frequently attracted attention online. Friends and followers have paid tribute to their creativity and confidence, while many social media users have highlighted the homophobic abuse they regularly faced because of their sexuality and gender expression.
In recent months, Sandhu had been the subject of controversy after Sikh religious leader Nihang jathedar Manpreet Singh Khalsa publicly criticised some of their social media content and clothing choices, arguing they were at odds with Punjabi cultural values.
Investigators are examining whether any previous tensions may be linked to the shooting, although police have stressed that no motive has yet been established.
The killing has prompted an outpouring of grief from followers and members of India's LGBTQ+ community, many of whom remembered Sandhu as a prominent voice for self-expression and queer visibility.
Authorities have formed multiple police teams to trace those responsible as the investigation continues.
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