Shilpa Rao's Mumbai performance cut short, singer expresses disappointment

Singer Shilpa Rao expressed deep disappointment after her performance at the 10th anniversary edition of the Bollywood Music Project in Mumbai was abruptly cut short due to scheduling delays, triggering criticism from fans and an apology from the organisers.

The incident occurred on October 24 when Rao's microphone and other musical equipment were reportedly switched off before she could complete her closing remarks. The next performer, Kutle Khan, began his set as she attempted to thank the audience.

Taking to Instagram Stories, Rao said the experience had left her heartbroken but thanked fans for continuing to show their support.

"Mumbai, a little piece of my heart broke tonight. It hurts deeply to have something so beautiful taken away from us like this. But even when the music stopped, you did not. The way you kept calling my name, the love in your voices. I could feel it all," she wrote.

Describing the performance as an unfinished story, the singer promised to return to the city and thanked her fans for their affection.

The interruption sparked criticism on social media, with attendees accusing the organisers of mismanagement and disrespecting the singer. Some said the festival was running around 45 minutes behind schedule, leading to the shortened set. The hashtag #JusticeForShilpaRao also gained traction online.

The Bollywood Music Project (BMP) subsequently issued an apology, expressing regret over the abrupt conclusion of Rao's performance and acknowledging the disappointment caused to the singer, her team and fans.

In its statement, the organisers said large-scale festivals involving multiple performers faced complex logistical challenges, and that extended sets by earlier performers could cause operational delays.

They also cited strict local authority guidelines and venue curfew regulations, saying the accumulated delays had forced the premature end of Rao's set.

The organisers said they held Rao in high regard and regretted being unable to present her performance in its entirety.