Bands better think twice before cancelling a concert in India

[marmar]

Riots broke out in a stadium in Gurgaon, India on 28 October, after Metallica cancelled a concert due to "technical difficulties". Police have arrested four of the gig's organisers, claiming they attempted to cheat fans out of ticket costs, as well as petitioning the bank to freeze their assets.

Friday's concert was due to be Metallica's first appearance in India, booked as part of the Formula One celebrations. More than 25,000 fans flocked to the venue, according to the Times of India, with some paying more than 10,000 rupees (£125) for tickets. But shortly before the show was scheduled to begin, DNA Entertainment Networks announced that it would not go ahead. "Due to some technical problems we are postponing the Metallica concert to tomorrow," they said, blaming a collapsed security barrier.

But fans weren't happy. Dozens allegedly raided the stage, and hundreds more broke down barricades, vandalised the sound system and threw bottles and chairs at the LED video screens. Despite their proposal to postpone the show until Saturday, DNA could not obtain a permit, Metallica said in a statement. "Our first and foremost concern is always for the safety of you." ............(more)

The complete piece is at: http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/oct/31/metallica-india-concert-cancelled-riot?newsfeed=true