Shilpa Rao’s Mic Cut Mid-Performance at Mumbai Music Festival, Attendees Call Out Mismanagement

Singer Shilpa Rao’s performance at the 10th anniversary edition of the Bollywood Music Project (BMP) in Mumbai on October 24 was abruptly cut short, triggering anger among attendees who accused organisers of disrespecting the singer and mismanaging the event.

Rao’s microphone was reportedly switched off midway through her performance. When she tried to thank the audience for their patience and support, her speech was also cut short as Kutle Khan of the Kutle Khan Project began performing on the same stage.

Shilpa Rao’s Mic Switched Off Mid-Performance

According to accounts shared online, Rao’s set faced delays before she was interrupted mid-song. She later attempted to bid farewell to the audience, but her microphone was switched off while Kutle Khan began singing.

The incident angered attendees, many of whom took to X to criticise the event’s management and the treatment of the singer.

One user wrote, “Absolute disrespect to Shilpa Rao! Horribly managed Bollywood Music Project!”

Another attendee complained that Rao had faced repeated microphone problems before her performance was stopped and the stage lights were switched off, blaming poor time management.

A third post called the incident “absolutely horrible production” and said no artist should have to face such treatment.

Shilpa Rao’s Journey in Bollywood Music

Rao made her playback singing debut in 2007 with Tose Naina from the film Anwar, composed by Mithoon. She rose to prominence with Khuda Jaane from Bachna Ae Haseeno (2008).

Her other popular tracks include Ghungroo from War, Bulleya from Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Chaleya from Jawan. She won a National Film Award for Chaleya.

The incident at the Bollywood Music Project drew criticism from attendees, who questioned how a major music event in its 10th year had handled the singer’s performance.