Electro dance music fest Sunburn may shift to state from Goa home

MUMBAI: Maharashtra is planning to host one of the country’s most sought-after musical jamborees as an official event in December. While the Goan government is yet to grant permission to its annual Electronic dance music (EDM) extravaganza Sunburn, Maharashtra is ready to offer its organiser, Precept Live, all required clearances in the quickest possible time as part of its ‘ease of business’ policy. The move comes close on the heels of permitting British rock band Coldplay to perform in Mumbai in November.

Sunburn, listed among the top ten musical and entertainment shows in Asia, has been hosted by Goa since 2007. The festival is an amalgamation of music, entertainment, food and shopping.

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over four days, it has multiple stages with artists playing simultaneously.

Maharashtra’s move is mainly to attract more such events, young talent, and investment. Government officials say the only hurdle is that Mumbai charges almost 45% as entertainment tax. In comparison, Bangalore and Hyderabad levies only 15%. They say a tax waiver is key to attract more such events.

Tourism secretary

Valsa Nair Singh

said the state was planning to set up an event and exhibition board that would try and lobby to get events and conventions to Maharashtra as ‘convention tourism’ is a big part of the sector. “We are soon going to hold the first such convention,” she said.Stay informed with the latest business news from the Times of India. Get real-time updates on Budget 2025, including expectations for the middle class, the education sector, and the gold industry. Explore the revised Income Tax Slabs and key policy announcements.