George Harrison‘s Concert for Bangladesh: A Sensational Charity Event

George Harrison, the legendary Beatles guitarist, organized a groundbreaking charity event in 1971 – the Concert for Bangladesh. This event was a pivotal moment in the history of rock music and international charity, raising awareness and funds for the Bangladesh Liberation War victims.

The Inspiration Behind the Concert

The Concert for Bangladesh was inspired by George Harrison‘s close friendship with Indian sitar player Ravi Shankar. Shankar, who had recently visited Bangladesh, was deeply moved by the plight of the Bengali people who were suffering from the war and a devastating cyclone. He shared his concerns with Harrison, who immediately decided to organize a charity event to raise funds for the victims.

The Concert

The Concert for Bangladesh took place on August 1, 1971, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. It featured an all-star lineup including George Harrison, Ravi Shankar, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton, and many others. The event was attended by over 40,000 people and raised approximately $250,000 for the victims of the Bangladesh Liberation War.

The Impact of the Concert

The Concert for Bangladesh was not only a groundbreaking charity event but also a significant moment in the history of rock music. It was one of the first large-scale charity concerts and set the stage for future events like Live Aid and Live 8. The concert also helped raise awareness about the Bangladesh Liberation War and the plight of the Bengali people.

Legacy of the Concert

The Concert for Bangladesh has left a lasting legacy in the world of music and charity. It has inspired numerous charity events and has raised millions of dollars for various causes. The event also marked a turning point in George Harrison‘s solo career, cementing his status as a talented musician and philanthropist.

Conclusion

The Concert for Bangladesh was a sensational charity event that brought together some of the biggest names in rock music to support a noble cause. It was a testament to the power of music and its ability to bring people together and make a difference. Today, the concert remains an important part of rock history and continues to inspire new generations of musicians and philanthropists.

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