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City losing its sheen as entertainment hub
The Millennium City may have emerged as the entertainment hub of the National Capital Region, but serious questions are being raised if it can host international events like the Formula One race.
The Millennium City may have emerged as the entertainment hub of the National Capital Region, but serious questions are being raised if it can host international events like the Formula One race.
Gurgaon’s image as a venue for hosting international events took a severe beating after concerts of Bryan Adams and Metallica were cancelled this year.
The Leisure Valley Ground in Sector 29, the only venue for outdoor events, presents a dismal picture as a rough and dirty patch with no infrastructure whatsoever. There is an urgent need to spruce it up and ensure provision of basic facilities to make it a preferred choice for holding big-ticket events. Sandeep Mehta, vice-president, marketing division of event management agency Wizcraft International Entertainment, said, “Gurgaon’s proximity to the airport and Metro connectivity make it an ideal venue for mega events.” Ayesha Dahra of Kingdom of Dreams, the city’s cultural hotspot, said, “While we have successfully hosted major events, the city does not have much to offer in terms of outdoor venues except for the Leisure Valley Ground.”
The city was seen grappling with its inability to handle the recently cancelled Metallica show after fans went on a rampage. Failure on part of the organisers coupled with the administration’s inaction in managing spot security led to complete chaos.
But all hope is not lost.
The proposed shifting of the annual mega event India International Trade Fair to Gurgaon and the recent laying of the foundation stone of Appu Ghar has come as a shot in the arm for the city.
