Ed Sheeran's Busking Stopped by Police in Bengaluru, Sparking Controversy

Tue Jun 17 2025 12:05:44 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)
Ed Sheeran's Busking Stopped by Police in Bengaluru, Sparking Controversy

British pop sensation Ed Sheeran faced police intervention while attempting to busk in Bengaluru, igniting debates about local regulations and public enjoyment.


In a surprising turn of events during his recent tour in India, Ed Sheeran was interrupted by local police while he tried to perform informally in Bengaluru. A viral video captured the moment when an officer unplugged Sheeran's microphone on bustling Church Street, leading to widespread criticism of the police's actions. Authorities stated that Sheeran lacked the appropriate permissions to busk, a claim that the artist contested via Instagram. According to him, he had the necessary approvals and insisted that the performance was planned in advance.

This incident unfolded on the day of his scheduled concert on the Mathematics Tour at NICE Grounds. The police's decision to halt the performance sparked a wave of responses from fans online, highlighting discontent with what some referred to as an "uncleocracy"—a critique aimed at the vague regulations that often obstruct public enjoyment. Local politician PC Mohan defended the police's actions, emphasizing that everyone, including celebrities, must adhere to local laws.

Sheeran, who is touring India for the second consecutive year, has already performed in various cities, including Pune and Chennai. During his Bengaluru concert, he delighted the audience by singing popular Telugu songs alongside singer Shilpa Rao. Known for his collaborations with Indian artists, Sheeran's efforts are part of a growing trend in India's concert landscape, driven by rising disposable incomes and an increasing appetite for live performances. According to industry reports, the concert economy in India is poised for significant growth, with estimates of its worth reaching between $700 million and $900 million in the coming years.

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