‘People Just Need Reasons to…’: Udhayanidhi Defends AR Rahman As Fans Allege Mismanagement at Concert – News18

After several people blamed AR Rahman over mismanagement at his Chennai concert, Tamil Nadu Minister defended the music composer and said “people need a reason to criticize Rahman”.

While speaking to media, Udhayanidhi said: “I didn’t go to the AR Rahman concert. Like you, I also watched it on social media. Actions have been taken against Police officials. A last-minute rush is said to be the reason for that. We have to avoid such incidents in future.”

“A few people are waiting for reasons to criticize AR Rahman. Tamil Nadu government will find out the real reason behind the untoward incident and take action against the respective person,” he added.

Oscar-winning musician AR Rahman’s fans got angry and disappointed after his concert in Chennai was not managed properly.

On September 10, sea of AR Rahman fans made their way to attend the concert that took place on the outskirts of the city. While fans lined up outside the venue to witness the music maestro on stage, several fans took to X to reveal that the venue was overbooked and many were not even allowed to enter the concert despite holding a valid ticket.

Rahman Had Nothing To Do With Inconveniences: Event Manager

Musician AR Rahman has nothing to do with the “inconveniences” caused to people during his September 10 concert here managed by ACTC Events, the event planner said on Wednesday. Hemanth, the firm’s founder and CEO, shared a video on Instagram and appealed that Rahman may not be targeted on social media as “ACTC takes responsibility” for the problems faced by people on Sunday. He assured to refund ticket cost of those who had missed out.

“There were many inconveniences (such as) those unable to enter despite having tickets-(we) apologise for such inconvenience. We did all the arrangements to enthrall people who wanted to listen to Rahman. Sorry for that (the problems). ACTC takes responsibility, for the said issues,” he added. Rahman’s role was confined to delivering a grand show and he did that and those who were seated in the venue enjoyed the show, Hemanth added.

“There have been some social media posts targeting Rahman. He has got nothing to do with the the inconveniences, so please don’t attack him. We assume full responsibility for the inconveniences caused- overcrowding, ticket duplications happened,” he said. All the required permissions for the show were obtained and all necessary arrangements made.

“Those who had paid for the tickets and and could not attend, the money will be refunded from our side. We will validate and verify and certainly refund the amount very soon,” Hemanth added. Rahman’s September 10 ‘Marakkuma Nenjam’ (Can the heart forget) had run into a controversy over allegations of mismanagement, resulting in traffic snarls on the busy East Coast Road, ticket-holders being denied entry into the venue and alleged sexual harassment of women among others.