Spotlight on celebrity quirks

Justin Beiber concert

For many ‘Beliebers’ in India, the month of May is very special. Justin Bieber is coming to the country for the first time as part of his ‘Purpose World Tour’ on May 10 in Mumbai.
While social media is abuzz with excitement about the tour, what has raised eyebrows is the Canadian artiste’s list of demands, published in a press release.

His alleged demands include non-negotiable prerequisites like 10 luxury sedans, two Volvo buses, a private Rolls Royce for himself and security from the Maharashtrian Police, in addition to the eight-member security staff.

While this may still be passed off as a celebrity’s quirks, the remaining part of the list is what has caught the attention of the netizens.

He has reportedly asked for 10 containers to be flown in from his home which will include his ping pong table, PlayStation, sofa set, washing machine, wardrobe cupboard and massage table for backstage.

The singer also wants arrangements to be made for a jacuzzi so that he can unwind before he takes to the stage.

Neha C Menezes, a client servicing manager, says, “It is understandable that he wants additional security because he is a very big star. But a list of required arrangements spanning over two pages seems a little over the top. Items like a washing machine or wardrobe cupboard are already available here. Getting a cargo to bring in his personal things like that is not needed.”

While the tickets to the concert are not as highly priced as the ones for  the ‘Coldplay’ Indian concert, there’s still a wait list to buy these. And there is also a convenient  EMI option for making payments for the tickets.

Ramesh Iyer, a member of the fusion band ‘Hamsadhwani’, says, “I have absolutely nothing against Justin Bieber; I think he makes great music and it’s wonderful to have him come to our country. However, from the press release that has been circulating on social media, some of this demands seem ridiculous. He is an artiste, so he should be able to entertain himself without his personal belongings when travelling.”

“It is alright for artistes to demand certain things but it’s best not to take advantage of the situation. It would be wise to use the money to give the audience a great show with props and cool stunts,” he adds.

However, not everyone thinks what Justin Bieber has asked for is over the top. Sooraj Kalapura, who goes by the name DJ Sonic-X, says, “I think everyone is making a
big issue out of nothing. Bieber is worth more than 225 million dollars and if he wants a few things, he has the right to ask for them. It may seem extravagant to us but to him it is normal.” 

He goes on to add, “Nobody cared when a Saudi Prince travelled with 506 tonnes of luggage, but when an artiste wants to bring some of his own things to where he will
be staying for a few days, everyone loses their mind. The promoters and organisers want to pull off a good show and they are ready to meet his demands because they know his name will sell the tickets. At the end of it all, that’s all everyone is looking for!”