For the first time in the history of Australia a concert has been declared as a ‘vehicle-free event’. The organisers and the country’s police feel the presence of about 70,000 people at the event will cause huge traffic jams in Sydney bringing the city to a halt.
Now, you must be wondering which artist has been able to get this kind of attention. Well, it’s none other that our very own AR Rahman who is performing at the historic Parramatta Park near Sydney on January 16 as part of his world tour.
The double Oscar-winning composer and musician will promote peace in the nation after recent news of assaults on Indians living there.
A close aide of Rahman says, “The event is expected to attract a massive number of people from across the world. They want see the Slumdog Millionaire composer and the Oscar-winner belt out his memorable Hollywood and Bollywood compositions. Many acclaimed singers and artists from across the globe will also perform alongside Rahman.”
The source adds, “About 70,000 people are expected to turn up at the event because it is a free concert and anyone can just walk in. The organisers have discussed about security arrangements with the traffic cops, who advised them to make the event a vehicle-free one. This would take care of parking related issues, as that many vehicles would have caused massive traffic congestion in Sydney bringing the city to a standstill.”
The organisers have even launched an advertising campaign asking people to leave their cars at home and just enjoy Rahman’s two-and-a-half hour live performance.
Moreover, the event has also been declared a ‘glass-free event’, which means no booze would be allowed while the concert is in progress.
The aide adds, “No one is allowed to bring alcohol. This might be a concern as people in Australia like their booze when they are having a good time. But Rahman is a staunch Muslim and alcohol is not allowed at his concerts. Bags of the visitors will be thoroughly searched. An express entrance has been created for people who are not carrying any bags.”
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