Linkin Park Rocks Mumbai in Khadi and Gamusa

Linkin Park's debut Mumbai concert at Lollapalooza India 2026, held on January 26 at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse, transformed into a significant cultural moment. The iconic rock band incorporated Indian heritage into their performance, notably by wearing Khadi attire on stage. This gesture garnered widespread appreciation, including from veteran actor Kamal Haasan.

Haasan took to Instagram to commend the band, sharing a picture from the concert and thanking them for 'Linking khadi TO the western world.' His House of Khaddar brand, launched in 2021, was implicitly referenced. The performance was the band's first in Mumbai, following their India debut in Bengaluru.

Further enhancing the cultural connection, lead vocalist Mike Shinoda addressed the audience while wearing a traditional Assamese gamusa. This handwoven cotton cloth, symbolizing respect and unity in Assam, underscored the band's acknowledgment of their Indian fanbase. Their presence in India marked a return to live performances after nearly two decades.

The concert occurred around the same time India and the European Union signed a landmark Free Trade Agreement on January 27, 2026, following extensive negotiations and the 16th India-EU Summit on Republic Day. Linkin Park, formed in 1996, currently includes members Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Joe Hahn, Dave Farrell, Emily Armstrong, and Colin Brittain.