For two decades, Yogesh Sharma, affectionately known as “The Greatest Showman of Oz,” has been shaping the Indian entertainment scene in Australia with larger-than-life events, bringing the magic of Bollywood to the Asia Pacific region. From spectacular concerts to groundbreaking collaborations, his journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. The 20th anniversary of his show business career was recently celebrated in grand style with the Arijit Singh Live concert at the iconic Axiata Arena in Malaysia on 16th November 2024, an event that solidified his standing as one of the foremost figures in live entertainment.
A Legacy Built on Vision and Passion
Since launching his first event in 2004, Yogesh has emerged as a visionary, bringing together the best of Bollywood and live entertainment to the Indian diaspora across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond. His career has been defined by his ability to break cultural barriers, offering a space where South Asian communities could unite through shared love for music and performance. As his reputation grew, Yogesh became synonymous with high-energy shows and meticulous planning, attributes that helped him earn his moniker as "The Greatest Showman of Oz."
From early days in Sydney to expansive shows in Melbourne, Yogesh’s unique approach to concert promotion and event management has helped shape the Indian entertainment landscape in the region. What started with small but impactful shows has now expanded to international productions, including collaborations with some of Bollywood’s most iconic stars.
Celebrating 20 Years with Arijit Singh
The highlight of Yogesh’s 20th anniversary celebrations was the monumental Arijit Singh Live concert in Malaysia, co-produced with Rohit Rampal of Hitman Solutions. Held at the Axiata Arena on 16th November 2024, the event brought together thousands of fans for a soulful evening with Bollywood's most beloved playback singer. The concert was a testament to Yogesh’s signature style, which combines meticulous attention to detail, state-of-the-art production, and a deep passion for music.
Praising the success of the event, Yogesh reflects, “This concert is not just a celebration of two decades of hard work; it’s a celebration of every single person who has supported me, from fans to artists to my dedicated team. Bringing Arijit Singh to such a big audience was a dream come true, and it was the perfect way to mark this milestone.”
The event garnered significant media attention in India, with over 20 major publications covering the success of the concert, cementing Yogesh’s reputation as one of the most influential promoters in the live entertainment industry.
Bridging Communities and Creating Economic Impact
Yogesh’s contributions go beyond creating unforgettable entertainment experiences. His work has had a profound economic impact, benefitting not just the entertainment industry but the local economies of host cities. Each of Yogesh's concerts generates a ripple effect, supporting local technicians, caterers, and the hospitality industry, as well as boosting tourism and local revenue.
Further, his shows have united fans from various cultural backgrounds, fostering social cohesion in communities across Australia. By showcasing the richness of South Asian culture, Yogesh’s events have become an integral part of the multicultural fabric of Australia, demonstrating the power of music and performance to bring people together.
A Vision for the Future
Looking forward, Yogesh shows no signs of slowing down. While he celebrates his remarkable past, his sights are firmly set on the future. “These past 20 years have been an incredible journey, but it’s just the beginning,” says Yogesh. “The future is full of possibilities, and I’m excited to continue creating experiences that bring joy and connection to audiences all over Oceania.”
He has already hinted at future projects, including collaborations with new artists and bigger events. Yogesh is keen on pushing the boundaries of entertainment, with plans to bring more Bollywood spectacles to Australia, adding fresh perspectives and exciting new talent to the already dynamic mix of performances.
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Giant
The story of Yogesh Sharma’s rise to prominence is one of passion, persistence, and a deep love for the arts. A man of modest beginnings, Yogesh initially worked odd jobs upon his arrival in Australia but soon saw the potential for professional Bollywood concerts in the country. Drawing inspiration from his extensive experience in the entertainment industry in India, Yogesh set out to create a space where the Indian-Australian community could experience live performances at a level never before seen in the region.
His first show in 2004, Bollywood Remix, featured artists such as Meghna Naidu and Jimmy Moses, marking the beginning of what would become an illustrious career in event production. In 2005, Yogesh brought Bollywood superstar Sonu Nigam to Australia for the first time, solidifying his reputation as the go-to promoter for big Bollywood events.
From that moment, Yogesh continued to raise the bar, bringing some of the biggest names in the music industry to the Southern Hemisphere. Artists like Salman Khan, Arijit Singh, Kapil Sharma, Asha Bhosle, Jagjit Singh, Sonu Nigam, Kumar Sanu, Shreya Ghoshal, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Pankaj Udhas, Gurdas Maan and Adnan Sami have graced his stages, performing to sold-out crowds in Sydney, Melbourne, and beyond.
The Show Must Go On
Despite the challenges of navigating the entertainment industry, Yogesh has consistently delivered high-quality shows, often overcoming obstacles that many would deem insurmountable. His commitment to his craft and his ability to adapt to changing market conditions, including the rise of online ticketing and digital promotion, has ensured his continued success.
Yogesh’s dedication to creating memorable experiences is reflected in his leadership philosophy. He believes that “communication and high-quality service will carry people and businesses forward,” a principle that is deeply embedded in his company, Cinestar Events. Under his stewardship, Cinestar has grown to become a trusted name in event promotion, with over 100 successful shows to its credit across the Asia Pacific region.
A Legacy to Inspire
Yogesh’s impact extends far beyond the stage. As an Associate Partner at the Castle Group, a real estate development firm, he continues to inspire with his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to excellence. However, it is his work in the entertainment industry that remains his true passion. For Yogesh, the “show must go on,” and as he celebrates 20 years of unforgettable Bollywood spectacles, it is clear that the best is yet to come.
“Entertainment is serious business,” he says, acknowledging the hard work and commitment that have fuelled his career. With a future filled with new challenges and opportunities, Yogesh Sharma’s legacy as the “Greatest Showman of Oz” is well and truly cemented.
For Yogesh, the mantra remains the same: “Keep doing what you’re passionate about and never get distracted by life’s obstacles. The show must go on.”
By Tonee Sethi