(From right) Rizwan Arshad, MLA, Shivajinagar, Bruce Lee Mani, Singer, Thermal and a Quarter and Oum Pradutt, Founder & MD, Phase1 Events & Entertainment during the panel discussion on ‘What Bengaluru can do to reclaim its concert scene’ at DH Bengaluru 2040 summit in Bengaluru on Friday.
Credit: DH photo
Bengaluru: Aerodrome, a new space coming up near the Kempegowda International Airport, is indicative of the state government’s support of arts and culture, shared Oum Pradutt, of Phase 1 Events, at the DH Bengaluru 2040 summit.
Earlier this month, the tourism department announced that the government would offer subsidies for the construction and development of the space.
The venue, a partnership between Embassy Group, Phase 1 Events and Live Nation, one of the biggest international entertainment companies in the world, will be ready in 18 months.
“It will host some of the most prominent artistes from across the globe,” he revealed.
Pradutt was on a panel comprising Shivajinagar MLA Arshad Rizwan and musician Bruce Lee Mani. The trio discussed the topic ‘What can Bengaluru do to reclaim its concert scene’.
On making Bengaluru more accessible for live music, Arshad shared that it is important to recognise that entertainment generates revenue and jobs.
“The government has to understand the infrastructural needs and the needs of citizens. I think it has been making a move towards promoting art and culture,” he stated.
Pradutt highlighted the importance of senstising the police and authorities to live performances and artistes, citing the recent incident involving Ed Sheeran’s performance on Church Street.
“We don’t see the same kind of resistance to religious leaders or gatherings,” he elaborated.
Mani pointed out that musicians need more support from the government. “I think private and government entities should collaborate to create an ecosystem where it is easier for musicians to follow their craft,” said the guitarist.
While the number of artistes the city is producing has grown exponentially over the last 10 years, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they are building sustainable longtime careers, noted Mani.
Often, musicians like himself must have multiple sources of income.
“There’s no roadmap to success in my line. I play in a band and I teach music. I know some musicians who work in event companies to support themselves,” he shared.