The Goa government’s decision to lease the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee stadium to a private showbiz company for a monthly fee of Rs 25.5 lakh has raised concerns among the sports fraternity. However, from a commercial perspective, such a large space being made available for various entertainment events at a fixed cost seems to be a deal in the lessee’s favour. With a private entity managing the stadium, there is a possibility of better maintenance, and event organisers may find it easier to book the venue compared to dealing with bureaucratic hurdles. Additionally, the government’s provision to use the stadium free of cost when required ensures public access is not entirely restricted. While concerns about the stadium’s original purpose being sidelined are valid, the reality is that its poor upkeep has already affected sporting events. Given the scale of the facility, the lease amount appears quite modest, favouring the company taking it on lease. The revenue potential from hosting large-scale commercial events is likely to far exceed the monthly lease amount, making this a highly advantageous deal for the lessee.
