A significant moment in music history took place in Mumbai this past weekend, as the famed American pop-rock trio, the Jonas Brothers, graced the stage of Lollapalooza India, marking not only their premiere in the nation but also their debut at the revered music festival. The much-anticipated event, now in its second installment, welcomed the spirited performances of the brothers—Nick, Joe, and Kevin Jonas—who had touched down in India that Saturday morning, ready to captivate the audience with their infectious tunes.
One moment that particularly captivated the crowd occurred when Kevin Jonas, the eldest of the siblings, affectionately referred to his brother Nick as ‘Jiju,’ a Hindi term for brother-in-law, paying tribute to the familial ties the band has to Mumbai, as Nick is wed to renowned Bollywood and global actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas. Seizing on the term of endearment, the crowd began to chant “Jiju” in unison, prompted by Joe, right before Nick stepped up to the microphone. The chant illuminated the strong personal bond Nick and his family hold with India, further highlighted by the attendance of popular Indian actress Taapsee Pannu, who was seen chanting along with the audience, accompanied by her sister Shagun and friends.
Enhancing the connection between the international artists and Indian culture, the event’s organizers had judiciously chosen to play ‘Galla Goodiyaan’ from the 2015 Bollywood film ‘Dil Dhadakane Do’, which featured Priyanka Chopra Jonas, ahead of the Jonas Brothers’ performance. Beyond the sentimental touches, the stage design saw a notable change with an extended ramp leading all the way to the pit, an alteration from the festival’s previous layout.
Brimming with an electric energy, the trio’s set was nothing short of spectacular. Accompanied by a lively brass section, complete with trombone, trumpet, and soprano saxophone dominating the forefront of the stage, the band performed cherished hits including ‘Play My Music’ from the Disney film ‘Camp Rock’. Not only did Nick exhibit his powerful vocals, but he also joined Kevin on the lead guitar, shredding the strings with fervor and sending waves of excitement through the amassed throng.
In an address to the fans, Nick opened up about his deep-seated love for India, a country he has visited on numerous occasions with his wife Priyanka, though this performance marked his maiden voyage as a musician on an Indian stage. The pop star articulated his sentiments, stating, “As a family we have a deep connection with this beautiful country. I’ve been waiting to be in India for a long, long time,” before echoing the words of Vin Diesel, “We consider every single one of you here tonight as family.” This proclamation underscored the reciprocal affection between the artists and their Indian fans, fleshing out the narrative of a profoundly personal and monumental live music experience.
The jubilant crowd, the heartfelt performances, and the fusion of cultures at Lollapalooza India highlighted the universal language of music and the integral role it plays in bridging diverse backgrounds. The Jonas Brothers’ debut on the Indian stage was more than a concert—it was a celebration of cross-cultural ties and a testament to their global appeal and the timeless bond that music can create across continents.
