Ed Sheeran Stopped from Busking in Bengaluru by Indian Police
British pop star Ed Sheeran was stopped from busking in Bengaluru, India, after local police intervened, citing a lack of necessary permissions. The incident, which took place on Church Street, quickly went viral as a video showed a police officer unplugging Sheeran’s microphone.
Why Was Ed Sheeran Stopped from Busking?
According to Bengaluru police, Sheeran’s team had requested permission to perform on the street but was denied due to concerns over congestion. However, the singer later posted on Instagram, stating, “We had permission to busk, by the way. Hence, us playing in that exact spot was planned out before.”
The event occurred just before Sheeran’s Mathematics Tour concert at NICE Grounds, Bengaluru.
Fan Reactions and Political Response
Fans expressed frustration online, criticizing what they saw as overly restrictive policies on public performances. One user referred to India’s strict regulations on public spaces, calling it an “uncleocracy.”
However, PC Mohan, a local MP from India’s ruling BJP party, defended the police action, stating: “Even global stars must follow local rules—no permit, no performance!”
Sheeran’s Growing Presence in India
Sheeran’s ongoing tour marks his second visit to India in two years. So far, he has performed in Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai, with upcoming concerts scheduled in Shillong and Delhi.
During his Bengaluru concert, Sheeran surprised fans by performing two hit Telugu-language songs alongside Indian singer Shilpa Rao. He has also collaborated with sitar musician Megha Rawoot on a rendition of his hit Shape of You and previously performed with Punjabi superstar Diljit Dosanjh.
India’s Growing Live Music Scene
India is emerging as a major market for international live music. Recent performances by Dua Lipa and Coldplay have further fueled the “concert economy,” which is projected to be worth $700-900 million according to a Bank of Baroda report.
For more updates on international music events, visit BBC.
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