National News

Gujarat Shows How It’s Done: World-Class Management Of Coldplay’s 2.5 Lakh Attendee Concert Is A Tight Slap To The Likes Of Diljit Dosanjh & Dravida Model Simps Like AR Rahman

January 27, 2025
The Commune

Coldplay’s recent performances in India, particularly their Ahmedabad concert on January 26th at the Narendra Modi Stadium, have proven to be a masterclass in event management. With over 2.5 lakh attendees, including 1.7 lakh visitors traveling from outside Gujarat, the British rock band’s Music of the Spheres world tour showcased India as a capable host for world-class events. Attendees praised the seamless experience, highlighting hassle-free roads, warm welcomes, and exceptional hospitality from autos to cabs, restaurants to street vendors, and hotels. Remarkably, not a single complaint about misbehavior, traffic issues, or mismanagement was reported over the two-day event.

In stark contrast, Diljit Dosanjh’s recent remarks about India’s inadequate concert infrastructure and AR Rahman’s disastrous Chennai show have come under scrutiny, fueling debate on the real challenges of live events in the country.

Coldplay’s Seamless Execution

The Ahmedabad concert, declared by Coldplay as their “biggest-ever concert,” featured dazzling lights, LED wristbands, and a meticulously designed stage. Chris Martin won hearts by addressing the crowd in Gujarati, saying, “Tame logo aaje bada sundar laago cho. Hu tamare shahar ma aavyo chu. Kem cho, Ahmedabad?” (You all look beautiful today. I’ve come to your city. How are you, Ahmedabad?).

The event’s execution was exemplary, with 3,800 police personnel and specialized National Security Guard contingents ensuring safety. Over 400 CCTV cameras provided 24/7 surveillance, and visitors enjoyed hassle-free experiences with smooth transportation, top-notch hospitality, and well-managed logistics.

Anand Mahindra shared aerial visuals of the packed stadium on social media, calling it a moment where “the world discovered that India is the new frontier of live entertainment.” Netizens echoed his sentiment, praising India’s capacity to host such large-scale events.

A Tight Slap To Diljit Dosanjh

Diljit Dosanjh had paused his December 14th Dil-Luminati concert in Chandigarh to criticize India’s infrastructure for live events, stating, “We don’t have the proper infrastructure for live shows here. Until then, I won’t be doing shows in India.” His comments have since drawn backlash, especially as Coldplay delivered an incident-free experience for one of the largest crowds ever hosted in India.

AR Rahman’s Chennai Concert: The Father Of All Fiascos

The stark contrast between Coldplay’s seamless Ahmedabad show and AR Rahman’s chaotic Marakkuma Nenjam concert in Chennai further underscores the importance of professional event management. Rahman’s concert on 10 September 2023, was marred by overcrowding, mismanagement, and safety lapses. Fans faced hours-long traffic jams, insufficient parking, and chaotic crowd management despite holding expensive tickets. Many were even reportedly being denied entry.

Several fans recounted harrowing experiences, including stampedes, children separated from parents, women molested in the crowd, and a lack of basic amenities. Many left the venue fearing for their safety, with some even fainting due to suffocation. Fans described being stranded for hours, unable to enter the overcrowded venue, and feared for their safety as reports of stampedes, missing children, and molestation emerged.

The organizers, ACTC Events, issued a tepid apology, while Rahman faced criticism for his silence. Fans demanded refunds and accused the event of being a “scam,” citing a similar fiasco during his Coimbatore concert. This stands in stark contrast to Coldplay’s meticulous planning and execution, which ensured a safe and enjoyable experience for fans.

Coldplay’s concerts have proven that India is not only ready for world-class live entertainment but is also capable of hosting events that rival global standards. Artists like Diljit Dosanjh and AR Rahman may want to revisit their strategies and event partners, as the success of Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres tour serves as a shining example of what’s possible with proper planning and professionalism.

India is no longer just a market for live entertainment; it is the new frontier—one that demands and deserves excellence.

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