The BOSM English Press sat down with Kalpana Panda, the Coordinator of the Department of Live Events, to gain insights into their preparations and responsibilities for BOSM 2024.
Kalpana explained that the department’s primary work is inviting artists for concerts and organising the Professional Shows for the fests. For BOSM, the department is organising Bollywood Nite and two additional events namely, Adventure Zone and Tattoo Art.
Leading up to the days of the fest, the department brainstorms potential artists for the Professional Shows, then proceeds to budget negotiations, and later negotiates with different agencies. The department tries to get the best artists in ‘a good deal’.
After this, Kalpana explained that the department starts the actual preparations for the show by publicising the event, conducting mess signings, and taking care of other organisational aspects. During the fest, the department manages the stage production, artists’ needs, and last-minute ticketing. They handle the adventure zone as well which includes small games like balloon shooting, archery, and hammer striking.
Kalpana mentioned that this year Bollywood Nite would be headlined by OAFF and Savera most known for their album, ‘Gehraiyann’.
When asked about challenges faced, Kalpana stated that one of the biggest challenges was finding an artist that would fit within the budget but also appeal to the general public. They considered themselves ‘very lucky’ to have found an artist who met the bar.
Talking about her experience as a coordinator, Kalpana stated that she was motivated to stand for the position as she wanted to give back to the department as it had given her so much. In conclusion, Kalpana advised everyone to sign up for the concert and urged everyone to experience it to their fullest.