Fans outraged over mismanagement at AR Rahman Concert, organisers say 'we're accountable'

Traffic snarls, angry audience denied access despite coughing up huge sums, crying children and jostling people -- these were the scenes at a concert organised by musician AR Rahman here on Sunday, September 10, due to alleged mismanagement of the grand show, titled "Marakkuma Nenjam," meaning "Can the heart forget." 

After angry fans took to X, formerly Twitter, to call out the organisers for mismanagement, the event management company behind the concert -- ACTC Events, issued an apology saying they were "accountable.

3 things you need to know

• AR Rahman's concert titled Marakuma Nenjam was held on September 10.
• The event organisers were slammed for poor management of the crowd.
• After receiving flak online for mismanagement, the concert management company, ACTC Events issued an apologised for their negligence.

Concert-goers outraged at mismanagement

A number of social media posts showed people complaining of being unable to reach the venue due to severe traffic congestion on the scenic East Coast Road (ECR) that even reportedly affected the movement of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin's convoy. While there was no immediate response from Rahman, the organisers ACTC Events, said they took "full responsibility." 

"It was worst concert ever in the History #ARRahman #Scam2023 by #ACTC. Respect Humanity. 30 Years of the Fan in me died today Mr. #ARRAHMAN. #MarakkumaNenjam Marakkavey Mudiyathu. (Can't forget).A performer in the stage can't never see what's happening at other areas just watch it," a social media post from a user "@NavzTweet" on X said.

People complained of "overcrowding," and the event being "shabbily organised." "It is a waste of money," a disappointed woman said. An angry musical lover complained she had paid Rs 30,000 to enjoy the concert with her family and alleged children were badly manhandled. Many said it took hours for them to reach the spot but still could not get access due to overcrowding and mismanagement of the entire event. "..pretty horrible-- not safe for children, could hear them crying and not safe for women at all," another fan was heard saying on a video. An angry man was seen tearing the tickets. Another video showed children crying while people were jostling with each other to enter the venue.

(AR Rahman's concert organisers apologise to those who could not attend the event due to overcrowding | Image: ACTC/X)

Organisers issue apology

Taking responsibility for mismanagement at the event,  ACTC events said in the post on X: "Grateful to Chennai and the legendary @arrahman Sir! The incredible response, the overwhelming crowd made our show a massive success. Those who couldn't attend on overcrowding, Our sincere apologies. We take full responsibility and accountable. We are with you. #MarakkumaNenjam." 

The post was reposted by Rahman.

(With inputs from PTI)