Mon Feb 10 13:44:48 UTC 2025: ## Ed Sheeran Rocks Bengaluru, But Permission Issues Mar Post-Concert Stroll
**Bengaluru, India – February 10, 2025** – English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran brought his “+ – = ÷ x Mathematics Tour” to Bengaluru on Saturday, captivating a crowd of over 26,000 at Nice Grounds. The concert, Sheeran’s first in the city, was met with enthusiastic reception, prompting the addition of a second show due to high demand.
Sheeran, who wore a “Bengaluru” t-shirt, praised the city’s energy and highlighted the unique, live-only nature of his performance, explaining his use of a loop station to create layered sounds that are deleted after each show. Fan favorites like “Perfect,” “Photograph,” and “Happier” had the crowd singing along passionately. The nearly two-hour concert also featured an opening act by Mali (Maalvika Manoj).
While the concert was a resounding success, Sheeran’s impromptu performance of “Shape of You” on Church Street later that day was cut short by Bengaluru Police due to alleged permit issues. Sheeran later clarified on Instagram that permission to busk had been obtained.
The concert’s success highlights the growing demand for large-scale music events in India, as seen recently with Coldplay and Diljit Dosanjh’s tours. However, logistical challenges remain, particularly regarding amenities like toilets, waste management, and parking, even at established venues like Nice Grounds. While the venue offered adequate parking and relatively clean facilities, food and beverage counters were overcrowded.
Sheeran’s Indian tour continues in Shillong and New Delhi.
First Piper 