BookMyShow Plans ‘Speed Dating’ Event in B’luru for ₹199, Criticised as Govt Takes Action
In a bizarre move, popular entertainment platform BookMyShow has planned a ‘speed dating’ event in Bengaluru’s iconic Cubbon Park, sparking widespread criticism and a police complaint from the Karnataka government’s Horticulture Department. The event, with an entry fee starting at ₹199, promises 1.5-hour sessions for participants aged 18 and above. While some may view the event as an innovative way to facilitate romantic connections, many others have expressed outrage and disappointment, questioning the necessity and propriety of such an event in a public green space.
According to reports, the event was scheduled to take place on a Sunday afternoon, with participants expected to engage in 1.5-hour sessions, followed by a short break, and then another round of dates. The event’s description on BookMyShow’s website claims that it is a “unique opportunity to meet new people and make unforgettable memories” and promises a “fun and relaxed atmosphere” to help participants “find their perfect match.” However, many users have taken to social media to express their discontent, with some calling the event “ridiculous” and “disrespectful” to the city’s parks.
The Karnataka government’s Horticulture Department, which is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of Cubbon Park, has filed a police complaint against BookMyShow, stating that the platform did not have permission to conduct the event in the park. “We have not given any permission to BookMyShow to conduct such an event in Cubbon Park. We will take strict action against those who are found to be responsible for this,” said a senior official from the department.
The controversy has sparked a heated debate on social media, with many users expressing their disappointment and frustration. “Who gave permission for such useless things?” said one user. “Is this what our parks are being used for now? It’s absolutely ridiculous,” added another. Many others have also questioned the need for such an event in a public space, saying that it would disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the park and create unnecessary congestion.
Despite the backlash, BookMyShow has refused to back down, stating that the event is still on and will go ahead as planned. “We understand that the event may not resonate with everyone, but we believe that it is a unique and innovative way to help people connect and make new friends,” said a spokesperson for the platform. “We have taken all necessary precautions to ensure that the event is conducted in a safe and respectful manner, and we are confident that our participants will have a great time.”
However, the controversy has also raised questions about the platform’s responsibility and accountability in hosting events in public spaces. “As a responsible platform, we should be mindful of the impact our events have on the community and the environment,” said a user. “Using a public park for a commercial event like this is not only disrespectful but also unsustainable.”
The incident has also highlighted the need for stricter regulations and guidelines for event organizers in public spaces. “The government should take a closer look at the events that are being organized in public spaces and ensure that they are in line with the city’s vision and values,” said a local resident. “We cannot afford to compromise on the quality of our public spaces and the experiences that they provide to the citizens.”
In conclusion, the controversy surrounding BookMyShow’s planned ‘speed dating’ event in Cubbon Park highlights the need for greater accountability and responsibility from event organizers and platforms. While the event may have been intended to be a fun and innovative way to connect people, it has ultimately disrupted the peaceful atmosphere of the park and sparked widespread criticism. The Karnataka government’s Horticulture Department has taken the right step by filing a police complaint against BookMyShow, and it is hoped that the platform will take this opportunity to re-evaluate its approach to hosting events in public spaces.
