Bollywood Music Project Apologises After Shilpa Rao’s Performance Is Cut Short In Mumbai
The event was reportedly running around 45 minutes behind schedule
Events
The Bollywood Music Project (BMP) has issued an apology after singer Shilpa Rao’s performance was abruptly cut short at the festival’s 10th anniversary edition in Mumbai on October 24. The incident triggered criticism from fans and concertgoers, with many questioning the event’s management and the treatment of the singer.
Rao’s microphone and audio equipment were reportedly switched off while she was performing, following scheduling delays at the event. As she attempted to thank the audience and conclude her set, fellow performer Kutle Khan began his performance, interrupting her closing remarks. The event was reportedly running around 45 minutes behind schedule.
Taking to Instagram Stories after the incident, Rao expressed her disappointment while thanking the Mumbai audience for its support.
“Mumbai, a little piece of my heart broke tonight. It hurts deeply to have something so beautiful taken away from us like this,” she wrote.
She added that the audience continued to cheer even after the music stopped, describing the experience as an unfinished story and promising to return to the city.
The incident drew widespread criticism on social media, with several attendees accusing the organisers of poor time management and disrespect towards the singer. The hashtag #JusticeForShilpaRao also gained traction online.
Responding to the backlash, BMP issued a statement apologising to Rao, her team and her fans. The organisers said they held the singer’s artistry and contribution to the music industry in high regard and described her presence on the festival lineup as an honour.
Explaining the circumstances, the organisers cited extended performances earlier in the event, operational challenges and venue curfew restrictions as factors behind the shortened set.
“Despite strict planning and coordination, live events can experience unpredictable operational shifts, including extended sets from earlier performances,” the statement read.
The organisers acknowledged that these delays had led to the premature conclusion of Rao’s performance and expressed regret over being unable to present her full set.
The episode has renewed conversations around artist management, scheduling and professional respect at live music events, highlighting the importance of effective coordination when multiple performers share a festival stage.