"Busking is begging," indeed!
I take tremendous exception to that sentiment. If busking is begging, so is playing a bar, or playing a concert--"music for money" is all any of these represent. The payment method is the only difference.
Busking is uncontracted entertainment. You lay your music out there for all to hear in hopes that someone will be moved to appreciatively toss a bit o' cash in there.
'Tain't panhandling. Panhandling is begging--asking a total stranger for money and giving nothing in return.
Entertainment vs. freeloading: learn to know the difference.
Oh, busking's legal here in Indianapolis, IN, USA. The people are mildly appreciative, too, though I don't know if I'd depend on it to pay the mortgage. I do it for the fun of connecting with an audience who didn't _plan_ to be an audience. If I make lunch money, it's a success.