Grammy-nominated rapper Akon kicked off his India Tour 2025 in Delhi on November 9, but what was billed as a night of nostalgia and high-energy performances quickly turned into a storm of online outrage. The concert at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium drew hundreds of fans eager to hear hits like Smack That, Lonely, and Chammak Challo, yet many left frustrated over poor visibility, sound issues, and disorganised crowd management.
Blocked views and empty front rows spark anger
The show, scheduled between 5 pm and 10 pm, faced criticism for its layout and design. Attendees who paid thousands for tickets complained that trees, sound systems, and screens obstructed their view of the stage, forcing many to watch Akon perform only on large screens. Social media posts highlighted empty front sections while fans at the back struggled to see anything.
Addressing the organiser and the performer, one X user wrote: “Hi District India, Akon I booked silver tickets at the Akon concert in Delhi happening today and I mean you can’t have trees and the sound system blocking my view? I’ve attended grub at the same place and that had a better experience for sure.”
Another added, “Standing at Akon’s Delhi concert — front sections are 70 percent empty while people at the back are struggling to see anything. No clear signs, blocked view by screens, cameras and trees. Requesting Delhi district admin and event team to allow people to move front or issue refunds please.”
A third post read: “I booked silver tickets at the Akon concert in Delhi on 9th Nov, and I mean you can't have trees and the sound system blocking my view? I have attended many concerts at the same location and never had such an experience.”
Organisers respond to backlash
Event organisers District India issued a statement acknowledging the complaints:
“Hi there, we truly appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback. We understand how this impacted your experience, and please be assured we’re continuously working with the event partners to address these concerns and improve future experiences for all attendees.”
Akon delivers nostalgia despite chaos
Despite the chaos, Akon delivered a setlist packed with fan favourites. He opened with Beautiful before turning up the tempo with hits like Smack That and Lonely. The night peaked when he performed Chammak Challo, joined by Hamsika Iyer, the original female vocalist of the Bollywood hit, sparking excitement and nostalgia across the venue.
While Akon’s India tour will continue in Bengaluru and Mumbai, Delhi’s chaotic start has left fans hoping for a far better experience in the next cities.
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