In an unexpected turn of events, Ed Sheeran's spontaneous busking session in Bengaluru was cut short on Sunday when local police intervened, citing a lack of proper permits. A popular video of the incident shows an officer disconnecting Sheeran's microphone as he performed on Church Street, a bustling hub known for shopping and entertainment.
Ed Sheeran's Busking Halted by Bengaluru Police, Video Goes Viral
Ed Sheeran's Busking Halted by Bengaluru Police, Video Goes Viral
The famous British singer faced police intervention during an impromptu performance in India, stirring public debate.
Authorities clarified to ANI that Sheeran's request to busk was declined to prevent traffic congestion in the area. However, Sheeran took to Instagram to assert that his team had secured permission: “We had permission to busk, by the way. Hence, us playing in that exact spot was planned out before.” He also teased fans by mentioning his concert scheduled for later that night.
The intervention drew criticism online, with commentators expressing frustration over local regulations stifling public enjoyment. One remark echoed the sentiment, pointing to a culture of strict enforcement in India as “uncleocracy,” reflecting a generational divide in the interpretation of public space usage.
Local BJP MP PC Mohan, however, defended the police action, stating, "even global stars must follow local rules - no permit, no performance!"
This incident unfolds as Sheeran embarks on a 15-day tour across India, having already performed in Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai. In a display of cultural appreciation during his Bengaluru show, he surprised attendees by singing Telugu songs alongside local artist Shilpa Rao.
As the demand for live concerts continues to surge in India, Sheeran's high-profile tour marks a rising trend in the country, estimated to transform the live concert sector into a significant economic contributor, projected to reach between $700-900 million.
The intervention drew criticism online, with commentators expressing frustration over local regulations stifling public enjoyment. One remark echoed the sentiment, pointing to a culture of strict enforcement in India as “uncleocracy,” reflecting a generational divide in the interpretation of public space usage.
Local BJP MP PC Mohan, however, defended the police action, stating, "even global stars must follow local rules - no permit, no performance!"
This incident unfolds as Sheeran embarks on a 15-day tour across India, having already performed in Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai. In a display of cultural appreciation during his Bengaluru show, he surprised attendees by singing Telugu songs alongside local artist Shilpa Rao.
As the demand for live concerts continues to surge in India, Sheeran's high-profile tour marks a rising trend in the country, estimated to transform the live concert sector into a significant economic contributor, projected to reach between $700-900 million.
