Ed Sheeran's Busking Attempt in Bengaluru Halted by Police

Sheeran's impromptu performance on a busy street in Bengaluru met with resistance as police cited lack of permissions, igniting conversation about public performance regulations in the country.

In an unexpected turn of events, British pop sensation Ed Sheeran found himself interrupted while busking in Bengaluru on Sunday, when a local police officer unplugged his microphone during the performance. This incident unfolded on the bustling Church Street, known for its vibrant shopping and entertainment scene.

Sheeran's team had made a request to the authorities for permission to busk, which was reportedly denied to prevent potential congestion in the area, according to officials from ANI news agency. However, the artist claimed via Instagram that they had obtained prior approval to perform, asserting, "we had permission to busk, by the way. Hence, us playing in that exact spot was planned out before."

The police intervention spurred considerable backlash online, with fans expressing frustration and labeling the situation as indicative of an "uncleocracy," a term used to criticize the bureaucratic nature of rules that inhibit public enjoyment in India.

Local MP PC Mohan from the ruling BJP party remarked that even prominent celebrities must adhere to local regulations, stating, "no permit, no performance!" This incident occurred just prior to Sheeran's highly anticipated concert at the NICE Grounds in Bengaluru, part of his ongoing Mathematics Tour.

During this tour, which marks Sheeran's second consecutive visit to India, he has already performed in cities including Pune, Hyderabad, and Chennai, with upcoming shows slated for Shillong and Delhi. Notably, during his Bengaluru concert, Sheeran delighted fans by showcasing his versatility, performing two popular local songs in Telugu alongside singer Shilpa Rao.

In previous collaborations, Sheeran worked with Indian artist Diljit Dosanjh and partnered with sitar player Megha Rawoot for a rendition of his hit song "Shape of You." With a rising demand for live music in India, Sheeran’s extensive tour marks a pivotal moment in the country's concert economy, projected to be valued between $700 million and $900 million, as highlighted in a recent Bank of Baroda report.