In a twist during his India tour, Ed Sheeran found himself at odds with Bengaluru police, who interrupted his impromptu performance in the vibrant Church Street area, claiming he lacked the necessary permits. Footage of the incident, which sparked considerable online chatter, showed an officer disconnecting Sheeran's microphone amidst a lively crowd eager for a surprise show.
Ed Sheeran's Bengaluru Busking Attempt Halted by Police
Ed Sheeran's Bengaluru Busking Attempt Halted by Police
British pop star Ed Sheeran faced police intervention during an unplanned busking session in Bengaluru, raising questions about local regulations and permissions.
The British artist took to social media to clarify the situation, stating that prior approval was secured for the performance, and emphasized that their presence wasn't spontaneous as it had been prearranged. As he prepares for his main concert at the NICE Grounds that evening, Sheeran reassured fans via Instagram: "All good though. See you at the show tonight."
Critics of the police's actions voiced their frustration online, lamenting the restrictive environment referred to as "uncleocracy," where elder authorities are perceived to inhibit youth enjoyment through vague public space regulations. Local MP PC Mohan, however, countered these sentiments, asserting that even international stars must adhere to local laws: "no permit, no performance!"
Sheeran's visit marks his second consecutive year in India on a fifteen-day tour, following performances in cities such as Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai, with subsequent concerts planned for Shillong and Delhi. At his Bengaluru concert, he delighted fans by performing two songs in Telugu alongside singer Shilpa Rao, further showcasing his collaboration with Indian artists like Diljit Dosanjh and sitarist Megha Rawoot.
The increasing popularity and demand for live music in India point to an evolving concert economy, with projections estimating live music revenues could reach between $700 million and $900 million (£550m to £730m). The recent performances by global artists like Dua Lipa and Coldplay underscore this burgeoning market, with Sheeran at the forefront.
Critics of the police's actions voiced their frustration online, lamenting the restrictive environment referred to as "uncleocracy," where elder authorities are perceived to inhibit youth enjoyment through vague public space regulations. Local MP PC Mohan, however, countered these sentiments, asserting that even international stars must adhere to local laws: "no permit, no performance!"
Sheeran's visit marks his second consecutive year in India on a fifteen-day tour, following performances in cities such as Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai, with subsequent concerts planned for Shillong and Delhi. At his Bengaluru concert, he delighted fans by performing two songs in Telugu alongside singer Shilpa Rao, further showcasing his collaboration with Indian artists like Diljit Dosanjh and sitarist Megha Rawoot.
The increasing popularity and demand for live music in India point to an evolving concert economy, with projections estimating live music revenues could reach between $700 million and $900 million (£550m to £730m). The recent performances by global artists like Dua Lipa and Coldplay underscore this burgeoning market, with Sheeran at the forefront.
