Event Industry Faces Difficulties As Maharashtra Govt Prohibits Any Kind Of Gathering
As India is still dealing with the ongoing Coronavirus crisis, it's not only the physical and mental health of citizens, but the economy is also facing the side effects of this pandemic. From the film industry to tourism and event industry to catering, this menace did not spare anyone.
Keeping an eye on the surging COVID-19 cases, the Maharashtra government has imposed restrictions on any kind of social, political, and cultural events, to avoid overcrowding. The Maharashtra government took this step to prevent COVID-19 cases and a possible third wave which is expected to hit the country in August or September.
This move sounds good from Coronavirus's perspective, however, it is affecting the event industry along with the film and catering industry.
Talking about the restrictions imposed by the Maharashtra Government on any kind of social and political events, Rohan Abbas, founder of Geometry Encompass, an event management company, said, "It has had the worst impact on our industry. Many agencies have shut ships. The staff has been reduced by 50-75 per cent and there is no financial help. We have been knocking on every door but to no avail. The other impact is that we are social animals and humans cannot be locked in for so long. We have demonstrated the ability to do safe events. We fail to understand why these are not considered essential for human well-being."
As the industry is dealing with constant restrictions, there are a lot of people who are adopting different ways to survive and sustain themselves financially. Abbas said, “The industry is going back to freelance and boutique operation models with most big agencies taking salary cuts and shutting offices down. We know of multiple agencies shutting down. If something is not done soon we will face irreparable damage.”
Due to the ongoing pandemic, a lot of events are taking place virtually, however, a virtual route is not suitable for every occasion. “Virtual events add a layer to our business and break geographical boundaries but they are more broadcast than live. And people pay 1/10 to 1/100 of the ticket price. In addition, what happens to those who do not have stable internet? Or is technology challenged? This is a digital divide we are creating between audiences and people. The big Indian wedding cannot happen virtually neither can the mega concerts. Conferences lack the serendipity of the chance to meet the unplanned conversation that leads to a lifelong relationship. Nothing can replace the joy of a hug or a handshake,” Abbas added.
Sushma Gaikwad, co-founder of Ice Global an experiential agency and founder of IGM, learning, and development organisation said, "I saw a distinction between the first and second wave of Coronavirus. While the first wave was very unprecedented, however, during the second wave people faced many personal challenges like mental health, financial stress so it was more devastating. The decision of the Maharashtra government is definitely going to affect the industry, however, I am sure the government will take necessary steps in favour of the people from the industry and to revive the economy of the State.”
Talking about virtual events, Gaikwad said, Virtual events are really good, and they helped people from the industry to generate revenues. Every event can take place virtually, however, a personal touch is necessary whether it's an event related to the brand or your personal event.”
Meanwhile, Ruchin Kohli Jt. Sec -North, EEMA and Founder & Director - Occasion Xperts Pvt Ltd. said, "The restrictions on social gatherings have impacted our industry to a great extent. Where event managers can make a profit from 500 people gathering, nobody bothers to hire us for 50 pax and hence the events are reduced to minimal. The year 2021 is a year of transition. We need to start looking at new ideas rather than just grinding through the present. Recovering from the losses is becoming more difficult but we need to shape the future. Brainstorming in progress."
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