Michael Jackson refuses to die.
In Mumbai, a string of clubs and restaurants are planning concerts in August, when Jackson was born, some to pay tribute, some to cash in on the opportunity.
The biggest celebration is planned by the Official Michael Jackson Fan Club in India, the only club authorised by Michael Jackson’s label Sony BMG and his management to use the name.
It was formed in 2000 and currently has over 13,000 members.
The multiple events planned by the club in August include a competition for moonwalkers and a quiz on the pop star.
Says Nikhil Gangavane, one of the club’s owners, “I can’t give too many details about the shows, they’re still in planning, we’re talking to various event managers in Mumbai.”
The biggest event is planned for August 29, Jackson’s birthday; the venue hasn’t been identified yet.
Worli’s Hard Rock Café has plans for tributes in the first or second week of August.
Hard Rock’s Amit Keshwani says, “We’re trying to get Indian artistes to sing Michael Jackson covers and perform in his style.”
{{/usCountry}}Hard Rock’s Amit Keshwani says, “We’re trying to get Indian artistes to sing Michael Jackson covers and perform in his style.”
{{/usCountry}}He refused to elaborate on plans. Olive at Mahalaxmi is hosting a Michael Jackson tribute today as part of its Playlist listening session.
A DJ will spin Jackson hits and a big screen will play out visuals of the pop star. Olive’s bar manager Ketan Thakkar is in the process of finalising ingredients for cocktails, which will have a Jackson connection.
Luke Kenny has been roped in to compere and ask guests trivia questions. Said Kenny, “It’s scheduled for August 15, and I’m looking forward to it.”