India’s Rising Concert Economy

‘India’s Rising Concert Economy: A new era of live entertainment’ is a recent report by Book My Show and EY India. It states that India’s live entertainment landscape is experiencing dynamic growth, propelled by higher disposable incomes, greater digital access, and a vibrant, youth-dominated audience. In 2024, the organised events sector crossed the ₹12,000 crore threshold and is on track to grow at a CAGR of nearly 19% over the next three years. The year also saw an estimated 70–80 concert days with over 10,000 attendees per event, pointing to a strong and rising demand for large-scale cultural experiences.

A key highlight was the Coldplay concert in Ahmedabad, which not only captivated audiences but generated an estimated ₹641 crore in economic activity. The event catalysed tourism, retail, transport, and hospitality sectors, proving that India—beyond just its metros—is prepared to host events of global magnitude. Effective coordination between private organisers and local governance was central to its success.

This momentum signals vast untapped potential in India’s concert economy. With evolving audience expectations and a thriving cultural scene, the sector offers exciting prospects for brands, investors, and policy leaders. Unlocking this growth will require innovative formats, sustainable event practices, and robust partnerships across sectors.

As India’s young population grows alongside interest in live entertainment, more cities are emerging as hotspots for global music acts. From tier-2 cities to urban hubs, the ecosystem is ripe for strategic investment and audience engagement.

In sum, the concert economy is entering a pivotal phase. With smart infrastructure, collaborative execution, and bold creative vision, India is poised to become a leading destination for global live entertainment—ushering in a new era of economic and cultural impact.