New Delhi, Feb 13, 2025: BookMyShow Foundation has launched an initiative dedicated to enriching lives of underprivileged talent through the transformative power of music and performance arts.
Originally launched as BookASmile in 2014 by BookMyShow, the impact-led initiative has now evolved into BookAChange, with a renewed vision to democratise access to music and the performing arts, for individuals and communities from marginalised backgrounds. At the core of BookAChange lies a powerful pledge towards inspiring and nurturing future pioneers in music and performing arts. Beyond just music and performance skills, BookAChange encourages holistic development, fostering emotional, social and intellectual growth in its beneficiaries. This approach aims to instil qualities such as responsibility, self-esteem, empathy, purpose and resilience, creating well-rounded individuals ready to make their mark on the world.
BookAChange has introduced its new music scholarship program, pledging 500 music scholarships, aimed at empowering talented individuals from underprivileged backgrounds across India. BookAChange Music Scholarships will support students and street artists pursuing education in music and the business of music at accredited institutions. This includes, but is not limited to music education in fields such as Instrumental, Vocals, Audio Production, Business of Music, and Song-writing. BookAChange will offer financial assistance to students from marginalised backgrounds.
Seamlessly integrated with the BookMyShow platform, BookAChange harnesses the collective spirit of millions of entertainment enthusiasts to drive meaningful change. With each ticket purchase, starting from donating just Re 1, consumers are invited to be a part of something bigger - fueling a movement that touches lives through music. Direct contributions, beyond these micro-donations, are also welcome.
Speaking about the launch of BookAChange, Farzana Cama Balpande, Head - BookAChange, said, “BookAChange marks the beginning of a new chapter where our commitment to making a difference through the arts deepens and expands. With BookAChange, we aim to amplify our impact by nurturing dreams, bridging gaps and creating inclusive access where everyone has the chance to flourish. We want to democratise access to music and the performing arts, empower marginalised individuals and communities and inspire the next generation of industry trailblazers. Our journey ahead is not just about the arts; it’s about inspiration, collaboration and a relentless pursuit of a brighter world for all.”
BookAChange is set to launch a series of transformative initiatives across India, reinforcing its mission to make music education accessible to all. In Mumbai, 30 students from Dharavi are receiving specialised training in Rap and DJing, equipping them with essential skills under expert mentorship to showcase Dharavi Dreams, India's first-ever hip-hop musical theatre. Additionally, 125 children from Mumbai’s BMC schools are currently on an intensive 10-month journey in Hindustani classical music through a specialised choir program, opening doors to advanced learning and certification.
Expanding its reach to Delhi, BookAChange supports a Music Bus, a mobile recording studio that provides over 6,000 children with hands-on experience in songwriting, recording and music production. Further spreading the joy of music, the ‘#MusicForAll’ initiative brings therapeutic music sessions to senior citizen homes, orphanages reaffirming the profound healing power of melodies across generations.
BookAChange recently took 25 beneficiaries, comprising 20 students and 5 music educators, on a transformative journey to Coldplay’s Music Of The Spheres World Tour in Mumbai. For the students, attending this concert was nothing short of exhilarating. Nikhil Bidlan, one of the beneficiaries, shared his excitement, stating, "I'm so excited to have attended the first concert of my life! The music, the lights, the energy - everything felt like a dream. It made me feel like anything is possible if you believe. I will never forget this day”. Arya Bhoir echoed this sentiment, adding, "When the music started, I felt so happy inside. I closed my eyes and just listened. It was the best feeling ever. Now, I want to learn more, practice more, and maybe one day, I can be on a stage like that too.”
The experience was equally impactful for the music educators. For them, it was not just about witnessing a world-class performance but also about drawing inspiration to enrich their teaching. The event provided invaluable lessons in music appreciation and the power of live performances, inspiring both students and educators alike. Pooja Waghela, a music educator, said, "Seeing my students experience live music like this was very special. It showed them how powerful music can be. It also gave me new ideas to teach them and make learning more exciting. Thank you, BookAChange, for making this possible for us."
Additionally, the second edition of Red Lorry Film Festival will be organised by BookAChange, which aims at raising funds to support emerging artists and daily wage workers in the cinema industry.
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