Dibrugarh, January 30: In a bid to strengthen Assam's position as an emerging destination for international entertainment and cultural tourism, the Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC) has announced plans to explore the possibility of hosting a concert by global pop superstar Shakira in Dibrugarh as part of the state's evolving Concert Economy initiative.
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| Global pop icon Shakira electrifies the crowd with a high-energy performance, showcasing her signature stage presence and dynamic dance moves. (Image Courtesy: newsweek.com) |
ATDC Chairman Rituparna Baruah said the proposal follows the successful hosting of an international concert featuring Post Malone in Assam, which demonstrated the state's capability to organise large-scale global entertainment events. He noted that the positive response to such programmes has encouraged the government to consider bringing more internationally acclaimed performers to Assam.
According to Baruah, preliminary discussions are underway regarding the proposed Shakira concert, although no formal agreement has been reached. He clarified that the project remains in its early planning stages and that further consultations with stakeholders and event organisers will be required before any official announcement is made.
The initiative forms part of Assam's broader strategy to diversify its tourism sector by promoting cultural and entertainment-based tourism alongside its traditional attractions such as wildlife, tea gardens, heritage sites, and eco-tourism destinations. Officials believe that hosting internationally renowned artists can significantly enhance the state's visibility on the global tourism map.
If the proposal materialises, the event would rank among the biggest international music concerts ever organised in Upper Assam. It is expected to attract thousands of visitors from across India and abroad, generating substantial economic activity for hotels, restaurants, transport operators, local businesses, and other tourism-related sectors.
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Officials also believe that large-scale entertainment events can create employment opportunities, encourage private investment, and stimulate growth in the hospitality and event management industries. Such initiatives are seen as contributing to the development of Assam's creative economy while providing a platform for showcasing the state's hospitality and cultural richness.
The proposed concert reflects the Assam Government's vision of leveraging global cultural events to drive economic growth, strengthen tourism, and position the state as a vibrant destination for international performances. While discussions are still at a preliminary stage, the announcement has generated considerable excitement among music enthusiasts, who hope the event will further elevate Assam's profile as a major destination for world-class entertainment and cultural exchange.
