Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has expressed a strong desire to bring the internationally acclaimed singer Shakira to perform in Assam, signaling the state's growing ambition to become a vibrant cultural hub. This announcement comes alongside the build-up to American rapper Post Malone's debut performance in Guwahati, which Sarma has hailed as a "rare and historic moment" for Assam.
Sarma's vision extends beyond a single event, with plans to establish Guwahati, alongside Shillong, as a major platform for global artists and to extend these international acts to other cities in Assam like Dibrugarh and Silchar. He emphasized that these concerts are becoming a new driver of economic activity in Assam.
Speaking to the media after the Dr Banikanta Kakati Merit Award Scheme scooter distribution ceremony at Srimanta Sankaradeva Kalakshetra, Sarma highlighted the economic benefits already seen from the Post Malone concert. He noted that visitors from the US and UK have arrived for the event, filling hotels to capacity and significantly boosting the local economy, without any financial assistance from the state government. "There are people pouring in from the US and UK to watch his performance. Hotels are 100 percent filled. It helps the economy," he said.
Regarding bringing Shakira to Assam, Sarma mentioned that there had been preliminary discussions, stating, "We had a little discussion about Shakira, but not much. Let it come naturally. But I feel like bringing Shakira to Guwahati. Next year or the year after, we will try". He also added, "It may take 2–3 years, but I want to bring Shakira to Guwahati — and also big artists to Dibrugarh and Silchar".
The Chief Minister has been actively promoting Assam as a destination for international entertainment. In June 2025, the state tourism department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Big Tree Entertainment Private Limited to facilitate the organization of international concerts in the state. Sarma stated that this agreement "marks a new beginning in Assam's cultural journey and is a powerful step towards reimagining Assam as a vibrant hub for global entertainment". He also noted that the MoU has opened the doors for Assam to regularly host international performances and become a part of the global musical circuit.
Sarma also addressed criticism surrounding the Post Malone event, stating, "Those who are protesting his visit — tomorrow, people in another country will also protest when watching Papon as well". He stressed the importance of welcoming global artists to Assam and highlighted the significance of Post Malone's performance, calling it a landmark moment for the state. "This is a rare occasion. He is an artist whose influence is across the globe and is ranked 4th or 5th among International musicians," Sarma said, adding that he had watched Malone's Abu Dhabi show on YouTube and found it "amazing".
With rising international interest, major concerts, and expanding infrastructure, Assam is steadily positioning itself as a vibrant cultural hub in the Northeast. Sarma believes that Assam is building a robust "concert economy," with Guwahati poised to emerge as a major hub in the next few years.
