Our Bureau
SHILLONG/NONGPOH, March 23: In a major boost to the city’s reputation as India’s rock capital, the iconic British rock band Def Leppard will launch their highly anticipated India tour from Shillong on March 25.
The opening concert will be held at the RBDSA Sports Complex, marking a significant moment for live music enthusiasts in the region. Organised by BookMyShow Live, the tour will bring together global rock legends and leading Indian acts, creating a high-energy musical experience across three major cities.
Shillong-based rock outfit Trance Effect has been roped in as the opening act for the Shillong concert. Known for their electrifying stage presence and a distinctive fusion of hard rock and modern influences, the band is expected to set the tone for the evening.
Following the Shillong leg, the tour will move to Mumbai on March 27, where the veteran Indian rock band Indus Creed will perform at the Jio World Garden. The final show is scheduled in Bengaluru on March 29 at the NICE Grounds, featuring Thermal and a Quarter as the opening act.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest arena rock bands of all time, Def Leppard’s decision to begin their India tour in Shillong highlights the city’s enduring legacy and passionate fan base for rock music. The inclusion of Indian bands alongside the international headliners showcases a growing trend in the country’s live music scene, where homegrown talent is increasingly sharing the stage with global icons. This collaboration not only provides wider exposure to Indian artists but also signals a new phase of growth for the rock genre in India.
Curbs on NH-6
The Ri-Bhoi Police has issued a public advisory ahead of the Def Leppard concert on March 25 at Madan Kurkalang, urging attendees and commuters to strictly follow traffic and parking regulations on National Highway 6 (NH-6).
Police stated that parking on NH-6 near the venue is strictly prohibited and that guests must use designated parking areas corresponding to their pass categories. Overtaking on the highway has also been banned to prevent congestion during the event.
Attendees have been asked to disembark only within designated parking zones, with getting down from vehicles on the main road near the venue being forbidden. Motorists, on the other hand, have been cautioned against overspeeding and advised to drive carefully before and after the concert, with police warning of strict action against violators.
To ensure smooth traffic flow, heavy vehicles will be staggered along the national highway from 1 pm to 11:30 pm on Wednesday. This restriction will apply to vehicles coming from Byrnihat in Ri-Bhoi, as well as those from East Khasi Hills and West Jaintia Hills.
With anticipation running high, Def Leppard’s concert is expected to draw large crowds, setting the stage for an electrifying tour that celebrates both international and Indian rock music.
