Relics of Lord Buddha, preserved in Gujarat's Vadodara, will be kept in Sri Lanka for public viewing for one week starting February 4 as part of a special programme. The relics include 'asthi' (holy ashes) of Lord Buddha, a permitted ceremonial robe, and a stone reliquary box with a lid. The box is decorated with silver and gold wires and bears inscriptions in Brahmi and Sanskrit reading "Dashbal Sharir Nilaya," meaning "Place of Lord Budha's remains". Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Tuesday, February 3, offered floral tributes to these relics at the Department of Archaeology and Ancient Studies at the Sayajiganj campus of the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda. Members of the Buddhist Mahabodhi Society and other dignitaries, including Rajmata Shubhangini Raje Gaekwad, were present on the occasion. These relics will be transported to Sri Lanka via Delhi and are scheduled to reach Colombo during the Sri Lankan New Year, a government release said. The ashes of Buddha were safeguarded near one of Vadodara's most ancient sites, the Vimleshwar Mahadev temple by Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, it added. During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Sri Lanka in 2025, India and Sri Lanka agreed to further strengthen cultural exchanges between the two nations. As part of this agreement, and considering Sri Lanka's Buddhist-majority population, the relics are being displayed during the New Year celebrations. These sacred relics were discovered during excavations at a mound near Devnimori, close to Shamlaji in Gujarat. In 1957, Professor S N Chaudhary of Maharaja Sayajirao University identified the site, the release said. Systematic excavations began after 1960 around the mound and nearby areas, confirming the presence of a Buddhist monastery that later declined in the 8th century. The monastery is believed to belong to the Hinayana tradition. Under the guidance of chief monk Mahasena, monks Agnivarna and Sudarshan constructed a Sharir Stupa near the monastery. These relics will be on display in Colombo till February 11. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
04 February,2026 09:53 AM IST | Vadodara | PTIIndian singer Sid Sriram has produced many hits ever since he started out more than a decade ago. Known for his extensive work with the South Indian film industry singing in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada, he has also been a part of Marathi and Hindi projects, showcasing his diverse musical journey. Among several hits, many in Mumbai got introduced to the singer through 'Srivalli' from 'Pushpa: The Rise' (2021) but the Carnatic musician has produced many others over the years including 'Mudhal Nee Mudivum Nee', which is among this writer's favourites apart from others including Sid's English music. The latter opened a whole new world as it seamlessly blends Carnatic music with Western influences. While Indian audiences were already familiar with his vocal range, the singer admits that one particular performance helped introduce his music to a global audience. Sid’s 'Homecoming' India tour saw him perform in Bengaluru, Chennai, and Hyderabad in 2025. As the tour culminated in Mumbai this weekend, Sid spoke to mid-day.com about the timing of the performances, creating music, and even the possibility of a collaboration. Here are excerpts from the interview: Firstly, how does it feel to be on your first-ever multi-city India tour? Also, what inspired you to finally do it this year? It has been super exciting. The journey has been exhilarating and filled with so many memorable moments. The tour is a celebration of the whole journey. It just felt like the right time. With roots in Chennai and upbringing in California, your music is a unique fusion of Carnatic mixed with soul and R&B among other genres. How have both the regions influenced your musical journey over the years? I think the main way both regions have influenced my musical journey is instilling in me the idea that home is an ever-evolving and shifting thing. With this understanding being at the core of my lived experience, I've been able to really dive into the idea of shape-shifting as an artist. My whole career has been a product of bringing my different worlds together. The desire to explore this musically came from my relationship with the idea of home. You have dabbled extensively with music for the South Indian film industry, and you seamlessly switch to regional languages. While your music demands it, how do you stay connected to your roots in the US? Not dabbled, I've immersed extensively in the music of the South Indian film industry. It's been a great journey singing in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Marathi, and Hindi. Staying connected to my roots while in the US feels pretty effortless. I grew up with Carnatic music surrounding me and music was my way of staying anchored in my culture. Apart from your film music, I distinctly remember listening to your NPR Tiny Desk concert when it came out. It had such a unique blend of your Classical roots and Western influences. Since the time you've been active, how have you seen more non-Indians gravitate towards your music, and Indian classical music at large? Did you set out to make more people aware of its rich history or is it happening along the way naturally? That Tiny Desk was a pivotal moment in bringing my roots and amplifying them out into the world. For many folks that watched my Tiny Desk performance, it was their introduction to Indian music. Since then, I've seen more people, including non-Indians, tapping in with my music and asking questions about Indian music. You have released quite a few singles in 2025. Are you currently working on any new music or an album that fans can expect any time soon? Additionally, if there was one Indian artist you would like to collaborate with, who would it be? I have a lot of new music I've been working on, both in Indian languages and in English. It's been a great deal of fun creating this music, and I'm eager to share it with the world soon. In terms of collaborations I'd like to do, Diljit (Dosanjh) and I could make something powerful.
04 February,2026 08:58 AM IST | Mumbai | Nascimento PintoMusic lovers of Delhi-NCR experienced a unique musical evening as American folk-rock band The Lumineers returned to India with their globally acclaimed 'The Automatic World Tour'. The concert unfolded as a deeply immersive experience, blending intimate storytelling with soaring anthems and an unmistakable connection between the band and their audience. From the moment the lights dimmed and Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites stepped onto the stage, the atmosphere shifted into one of collective anticipation. With stripped-back arrangements, heartfelt lyricism and a commanding yet understated presence, The Lumineers drew the crowd into their world, creating a space where every song felt personal and every chorus echoed with shared emotion. What followed was a performance that felt less like a spectacle and more like a communal journey. Reflecting on the evening, Naman Pugalia, who is the chief business officer - Live Events, with BookMyShow, said, “Indie music has always found its power in storytelling, in the quiet honesty of its narratives and the way they invite listeners into something deeply personal. Artists like The Lumineers have an ability to turn these intimate stories into shared emotional experiences that travel across borders and cultures. Their return to India feels like a reflection of how audiences look for pure connection, meaning and authenticity in a live music experience. Curating shows where music can be felt, not just heard; where atmosphere, emotion and community intersect, is increasingly shaping the way live entertainment is experienced in the country.” The band’s setlist moved like a quiet conversation across time, gathering songs that have come to define The Lumineers’ journey including ‘Ho Hey’, ‘Cleopatra’, ‘Ophelia’ and ‘Stubborn Love’, setting them gently alongside the newer, introspective pieces from Automatic, including ‘Same Old Thing’, ‘You’re All I Got’, and ‘Keys On The Table’. Each song arrived unhurried, received in reverent silence or carried softly by thousands of voices, as the crowd drifted between memory and the fragile beauty of the present moment. The band shared their love for the Delhi crowd and, before launching into ‘Asshole’, raised a toast to the night, dedicating the song to all the “assholes” in the room, themselves very much included. The Lumineers blurred the line between the stage and audience, allowing vulnerability to sit comfortably beside swelling crescendos. Beneath the open sky, the night, held together by warmth, sincerity and shared emotion, left an afterglow that lingered long after the final note. As the crowd rose in applause and the lights dimmed on an evening that felt both expansive and deeply personal, it was clear that The Lumineers’ India show, produced and promoted by BookMyShow Live, set the tone in the national capital for the rest of the year.
03 February,2026 12:21 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA group of students and faculty members from a Mumbai-based college has been mapping and documenting ancient stepwells, locally known as 'baravs', across the Marathwada region in central Maharashtra, a lecturer from the institute has said. The study covers stepwells located in Jalna, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Parbhani and Lonar in Buldhana district, she said. According to lecturer Tanvi Joshi of Chembur Trombay Education Society's College of Architecture, Mumbai, 62 students and seven faculty members are involved in the 'Maharashtra Baarav Mission' project. "The aim is to understand the architectural, historical and functional significance of the stepwells," she said, adding that they have been sharing their findings with the government authorities to facilitate conservation of these historic structures. Local historian Rambhau Lande, who has been assisting the team, said that British-era gazetteers recorded around 90 wells in the Jalna district, but only 38 are traceable today. "So far, the team has documented 12 stepwells in detail," he said. This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day management/mid-day.com reserves the sole right to alter, delete or remove (without notice) the content in its absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.
01 February,2026 09:43 AM IST | Jalna | PTIIf you have been looking to enjoy a laidback weekend in Mumbai, then there is a lot to explore because while there are some really interesting food experiences, add some music to the mix, but not without the luxury of Mumbai's horse racing. Here are some curated events to explore this weekend: Music showcase HyLo Kalaghoda is back with another powerful three-room showcase, this time shining the spotlight on the incredible Rural (JP) crew. Spanning across three distinctive spaces – the Terrace, The Listening Room, and the main HyLo floor – the showcase promises a seamless journey across moods, tempos, and textures. Each room will offer its own identity and energy, with extended sets. This special edition features the collective, creating a powerful cultural exchange between Japan’s influential underground scene and Mumbai’s evolving music landscape. Where: Hylo, Kala Ghoda When: January 31Time: 3 pm onwardsPrice: Early Bird tickets at Rs 999 Flavours of Malaysia The Fairmont Mumbai is hosting 'The Merchants of Malaysia', a Malaysian food and culture festival that to celebrate the flavours of the country in a menu curated by Chef Irwan and Chef Faridul Ataras Ab Razak. Diners can enjoy delicious food and cocktails for lunch and dinner, while watching traditional dance performances during the latter experience. Start with refreshments such as Teh Ais Limau, followed by dishes such as Udang Goreng, crisp fried prawns, and beloved vegetarian specialties including Bakwan Sayur and Tauhu Sumbat, served with a bold peanut and chilli dip. Choose from salads such as Kerabu Ayam, a herb-forward chicken salad brightened with citrus, to the sweetly tangy Kerabu Udang. Vegetarian offerings such as Acar Jelatah bring refreshing contrast, combining crisp vegetables, pineapple, aromatic herbs, and lim. You can also savour soups such as Laksa Lemak, enriched with coconut milk, noodles, and fragrant spices, and Sup Ayam Bersama Kentang, a soothing chicken broth with tender young potatoes. You can enjoy main course like Ayam Masak Berlado and Gulai Lemak Udang Dengan Rebung, alongside thoughtfully crafted vegetarian dishes like Rendang Tauhu and the homestyle favourite Fried Meehoon, a Malaysian village-style noodle dish. End your meal with Cucur Badak, Kueh Sri Puteri Ayu, and Kuih Bakar, to the indulgent Serawa Durian but not without sipping on delicious cocktails or beverages such as Teh Tarik, the refreshing cendol, and aromatic luwak coffee. Where: The Merchants, The Fairmont Mumbai, Andheri EastWhen: On till February 8Time: 12 noon - 3 pm, 7 pm onwards Call: 080975 55901 Indian derby The Villoo Poonawalla Indian Derby, in collaboration with the Royal Western India Turf Club (RWITC) is hosting a horse racing spectacle in Mumbai at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse in Mumbai. The event brings together racing enthusiasts, industry leaders, and tastemakers for a full-day experience that seamlessly blends high-stakes sport with gourmet indulgence, world-class cocktails, live entertainment, and fashion-forward glamour. If you love the thrill of horse racing and celebrating luxury and style, then wear your best because the dress code is Western Formals. Where: Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Mahalaxmi When: Sunday, February 1Time: 2 pm onwards Price: Rs 1000; book on District by Zomato
31 January,2026 02:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThe iconic Kala Ghoda Arts Festival (KGAF) returns for its landmark 26th edition, transforming Mumbai’s historic Kala Ghoda precinct into a vibrant celebration of arts, culture, and community. KGAF is scheduled to start from Saturday, January 31 to Sunday, February 8. Mumbai's one of the most loved festival will run daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, inviting audiences to experience Asia’s largest multidisciplinary street arts festival—free and open to all. Theme 2026: Ahead of the Curve Symbolising foresight, innovation, and leadership in the arts, Ahead of the Curve reflects KGAF’s enduring commitment to staying at the forefront of cultural expression. Like a winning steed leading the pack, the festival sets the pace. KGAF this year also looks to honour tradition while anticipating tomorrow. Organised by the Kala Ghoda Association, KGAF has grown from a local initiative in 1999 into one of India’s most loved cultural events, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. Scale and Scope The Kala Ghoda Arts Festival in 2026 will hold more than 300 programs across 15 verticals. The festival will also include more than 25 indoor and outdoor venues, including CSMVS Museum, Cross Maidan, David Sassoon Library, Horniman Circle Garden, and K. Dubash Marg Free registration and entry for all events KGAF in Mumbai this year will keep a strong focus on sustainability, diversity, accessibility, and pedestrian-friendly urban design. Brinda Miller, chairperson, Kala Ghoda Association and festival director, said, “As we embark on the milestone 26th edition of the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, we are thrilled to continue celebrating art, culture, and community in the heart of Mumbai. This year’s theme, Ahead of the Curve, reflects our ambition to surpass last year’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.” Festival Verticals Children, Cinema, Dance, Food, Heritage Walks, Lifestyle, Literature, Music, Stalls – Arts, Crafts & Fashion, Stand-up Comedy,Street Programming,Theatre,Urban Design & Architecture,Visual Arts, Workshops Each vertical interprets Ahead of the Curve through a distinct sub-theme—ranging from Spandan (Dance) and Sound Waves (Music) to Avant-Garde (Theatre), Geometri (Visual Arts), and The Learning Curve (Workshops). Led by Geeta Castelino, KGAF strengthens inclusive participation through emotional, functional, and technical accessibility—with touch-and-feel moments, sign-language interpretation, ramps, interpreters, and inclusive programming across venues and verticals.
31 January,2026 12:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai's Kala Ghoda Arts Festival is all set to return this weekend, and it takes place from January 31 to February 8 in the South Mumbai neighbourhood of Kala Ghoda. While there are a wide variety of activities, workshops and events that are lined up for the nine days, there will also be a lot of good music. Among the many performers, Mumbaikars and attendees coming from all over will get to witness three-time Grammy Award-winner Ricky Kej perform live at the city's most prestigious arts festival on February 7, before India's beloved Usha Uthup takes over with her powerful voice. The festival will end with a performance by Indian actor-director Farhan Akhtar and Monali Thakur respectively on February 8. While Farhan will perform some of his self-written English songs, Monali will sing some of her most popular ballads, but not without her high-energy hits. Interestingly, the music performances will start on January 31 itself and run simultaneously every day, giving people to look forward something new every single day. Among many performances, the Konkan Kanya all-female band will set the tone for the next week, followed by Goa's Black Sapphire Band on February 1 showcasing the unique diversity of India during the first weekend.
31 January,2026 12:16 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai’s iconic Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2026 will begin from this weekend and go on throughout the next week ending in the first week of February. With yet another edition set to take over the city over the next week, there is a lot in store for Mumbaikars with a focus not only arts and culture, but also music, food and more for adults and well as children in the Kala Ghoda neighbourhood of Mumbai. Days Organised by the Kala Ghoda Association, the festival has grown from a local initiative in 1999 to celebrate India's arts in so many different ways. Kala Ghoda Arts Festival 2026 is all set to take place from January 31 to February 8 in the Kala Ghoda area of Churchgate in Mumbai Significance It is known to be one of Asia’s largest multidisciplinary street arts festival that people to experience a dynamic blend of tradition, and innovation. This year, the 15 verticals focus on children, cinema, dance, food, heritage walks, lifestyle, literature, music, stalls with arts, crafts and fashion, stand-up comedy, street programming, theatre, urban Design and architecture, visual arts, and workshops. Time The nine-day festival will take place from 10 am to 10 pm every day across the South Mumbai neighbourhood with a wide variety of events held in some of the most iconic structures in the area. With over 400 programmes, over 100 art installations across 15 verticals, the 2026 edition will span over 25 exclusive indoor and outdoor venues, including K. Dubash Marg, CSMVS Museum, Cross Maidan, David Sassoon Library, and Horniman Circle Garden. Theme The theme for this year is “Ahead of the Curve” symbolising foresight, creativity, and leadership in the arts, thus continuing the enduring commitment to staying at the forefront of cultural expression. Entry and travel All events are free to register and attend to make art accessible to all people coming from all over. The easiest way to travel to the area is by taking the Mumbai local train and get off at CST on the Central Railway line, and Churchgate on the Western Railway line. While you can always walk, if you are going there in the morning or evening, you can also take a black and yellow taxi to the neighbourhood that would cost about Rs 50. Additionally, you can also take the Aqua Line metro, and get down at Hutatma Chowk, Churchgate or CSMT metro, depending on the route you are travelling to reach there the fastest. It will be difficult to get parking for private cars, so it is advised to take the public transport. Performances Among the many performers, Mumbaikars and attendees coming from all over will get to witness three-time Grammy Award-winner Ricky Kej perform live at the city's most prestigious arts festival on February 7, before India's beloved Usha Uthup takes over with her powerful voice. The festival will end with a performance by Indian actor-director Farhan Akhtar and Monali Thakur respectively on February 8. While Farhan will perform some of his self-written English songs, Monali will sing some of her most popular ballads, but not without her high-energy hits.
31 January,2026 12:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMumbai’s Kala Ghoda Arts Festival will begin from January 31 and continue till February 8. Situated in the art district of South Mumbai, the nine-day festival will see many different kinds of events, all of which are free to register and attend to make art accessible to all people coming from all over. Train travel to Kala Ghoda Arts Festival The easiest way to travel to the area is by taking the Mumbai local train and get off at CST on the Central Railway line, and Churchgate on the Western Railway line. While you can always walk, if you are going there in the morning or evening, you can also take a black and yellow taxi to the neighbourhood that would cost about Rs 50. Aqua Line Metro travel Additionally, you can also take the Aqua Line metro, and get down at Hutatma Chowk, Churchgate or CSMT metro, depending on the route you are travelling to reach there the fastest. Avoid private vehicles It will be difficult to get parking for private cars, so it is advised to take the public transport.
31 January,2026 12:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentThere’s something unmistakably magical about walking into a bookstore, the quiet hum of curiosity, the promise of discovery, and the feeling that the right book will somehow find you. This list brings together standout releases already winning hearts and conversations, alongside much-anticipated books hitting shelves in the months ahead. From cosy cafés and sharp rom-com rivalries to dark romance and brain-hacking science, Crossword bookstore says these are the reads readers are bookmarking, pre-ordering, and talking about everywhere, and here is what you need to know about them. 1. Lightning Kid by Viswanathan AnandMore than a sports memoir, Lightning Kid is the story of quiet determination, discipline, and intellectual brilliance. Viswanathan Anand traces his journey from a chess-loving boy in Chennai to becoming one of the world’s greatest Grandmasters, without ever sounding boastful. The book offers fascinating insights into the mental toughness required at the highest level of competitive chess, while also reflecting on setbacks, reinvention, and longevity. Even if you don’t know a rook from a bishop, this is an inspiring read about mastering one’s craft and staying relevant in a fast-changing world. 2. Blood & Roses (Vol. 1) by Callie HartDark, addictive, and unapologetically intense, Blood & Roses is perfect for readers who like their romance edged with danger. Callie Hart blends passion, power struggles, and morally grey characters into a fast-paced narrative that keeps you hooked from the first chapter. This book explores obsession, control, and vulnerability, making it more than just a romance; it’s a deep dive into complicated emotional landscapes. Ideal for fans of gritty love stories with always-high stakes. 3. Dear Debbie by Freida McFaddenWritten in Freida McFadden’s signature sharp and emotionally resonant style, Dear Debbie captures the ache of unresolved feelings and unspoken truths. The book reads like a conversation you wish you’d had or a letter you never sent, making it deeply relatable. It explores relationships, regret, and emotional honesty with a rawness that lingers long after you finish reading. This is a great pick for readers who enjoy introspective fiction that quietly hits hard. 4. Two Can Play by Ali Hazelwood (Upcoming- 10th February)If you love rom-com energy with smart, lovable characters, Two Can Play deserves a spot on your list. Ali Hazelwood brings her trademark wit, nerdy charm, and slow-burn chemistry to a story that beautifully balances competition and connection. The book celebrates ambition, mutual respect, and the joy of intellectual sparring, making it especially appealing to readers who like their romance clever rather than clichéd. Light, funny, and deeply satisfying. 5. Hot Chocolate on Thursday by Michiko Aoyama (Releasing on February 19)Gentle, heartwarming, and quietly transformative, this book is like a warm mug on a rainy day. Michiko Aoyama weaves interconnected stories of ordinary people seeking meaning, reassurance, and second chances. Each chapter feels like a soft nudge toward hope, reminding readers that small encounters can change the course of a life. Perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed, Hot Chocolate on Thursday is a reminder to slow down and notice the kindness around us. 6. The Supreme Gift by Paulo Coelho (Releasing on March 3)In true Paulo Coelho fashion, The Supreme Gift is a spiritual reflection disguised as a simple story. It explores love, generosity, and the idea that true wealth lies in what we give rather than what we possess. The prose is minimal but powerful, inviting readers to pause and reflect on their own values. This is an ideal read for moments when you’re seeking clarity, purpose, or a gentle philosophical reset. 7. Hooked by Asako Yuzuki (Releasing on March 12)Darkly fascinating and unsettling, Hooked is a psychological exploration of desire, control, and consumption, both literal and metaphorical. Asako Yuzuki crafts a narrative that pulls readers into the mind of a deeply flawed protagonist, forcing uncomfortable questions about obsession and morality. The book is sharp, provocative, and impossible to forget, making it a compelling choice for readers who enjoy literary fiction that challenges and disturbs in equal measure. 8. Open to Work by Aneesh Raman and Ryan Roslansky (Releasing on March 31)A must-read for anyone navigating the modern professional world, Open to Work goes beyond career advice to explore how work shapes identity and self-worth. Blending personal stories with practical insights, the authors address burnout, reinvention, and the courage it takes to start over. This book is especially relevant in an era of constant change, layoffs, and career pivots. Thoughtful, timely, and deeply human, it reframes success on your own terms. 9. Before I Knew I Loved You by Toshikazu Kawaguchi (Releasing on May 21)From the author known for tender, time-bending stories, this book is a delicate meditation on love and memory. Kawaguchi explores relationships at the moment just before they are fully understood, when feelings are fragile, unnamed, and fleeting. The writing is soft yet emotionally precise, making it perfect for readers who enjoy reflective fiction with a touch of magic and melancholy. It’s a book to be read slowly and remembered deeply. 10. Protocols by Dr Andrew Huberman (Releasing on September 9)Rooted in neuroscience but written for everyday readers, Protocols translates cutting-edge research into practical tools for better living. Dr Andrew Huberman explains how habits, sleep, focus, and stress are deeply interconnected and how small, consistent changes can lead to massive improvements. This is not a motivational fluff book; it’s evidence-based, actionable, and empowering. Ideal for readers who want to understand why their brains work the way they do and how to optimise them. Books, like moods, don’t come in one flavour, and this list proves it. Whether you’re craving chaos, comfort, clarity, or a little beautifully unsettling obsession, these titles meet you exactly where you are.
30 January,2026 01:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentGurugram will host a sound that has quietly threaded itself into Indian listening culture over the past decade. The Lumineers, an American band that helped shape indie folk into a globally shared emotional vocabulary, will perform in India as part of The Automatic World Tour, supporting their fifth studio album, Automatic. For Indian audiences, The Lumineers’ music has long existed in intimate spaces: through headphones on long commutes, background playlists during late nights or songs passed between friends as emotional shorthand. The band last played in India in 2022, but this Gurugram show marks their biggest standalone concert in the country so far. It reflects how deeply their music has embedded itself into the listening habits of a generation here. Songs like ‘Ho Hey’, ‘Cleopatra’, ‘Ophelia’ and ‘Stubborn Love’ are familiar not as chart hits but as emotional markers tied to personal memories. That kind of connection is precisely how indie folk became more than a genre. Formed by Wesley Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites, The Lumineers’ 2012 breakout ‘Ho Hey’ was raw and disarmingly simple. By pop standards, it broke every rule. By human standards, it made perfect sense. Its handclaps, chant-along chorus and open-ended lyrics created something communal. It was music that invited participation rather than admiration. What followed was a steady rise built on trust rather than spectacle. Albums like ‘Cleopatra’ and ‘III’ explored family trauma, addiction, loss and resilience with restraint. The band never overexplained its emotions, leaving listeners space to project their own stories. Live, this approach only deepened. Lumineers shows are famously stripped back, shaped around shared singing and quiet moments as much as big choruses, an intimacy Indian audiences are now preparing to experience. Indie folk’s global rise mirrors the emotional climate of the past fifteen years. It slowed things down and allowed vulnerability without irony. Acoustic guitars, unpolished vocals and lyrics that sounded like internal monologues became a refuge for listeners navigating uncertainty. That sensibility found fertile ground in India as streaming platforms reshaped music discovery. Young listeners began looking for songs that spoke more directly to their lives. Artists like Prateek Kuhad, When Chai Met Toast and Anuv Jain captured this shift, writing inward and trusting emotional honesty over polish. Even artists like Parekh & Singh and Peter Cat Recording Co., contributed to a wider ecosystem that valued feeling over form. The connection between The Lumineers and India’s indie scene is not about direct influence but alignment. Themes of nostalgia, family and belonging resonate across borders. A listener can move from The Lumineers to an Indian indie artist in the same playlist without a shift in emotional temperature. In a world dominated by viral hooks and algorithm-friendly soundbites, indie folk’s persistence feels quietly defiant. The Lumineers’ upcoming show this weekend is a reminder of how far music can travel without losing its core. The Lumineers’ 'The Automatic World Tour' in Gurugram, which is produced and promoted by BookMyShow Live, will take February 1, and fans can get their tickets on the platform.
30 January,2026 12:57 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondentADVERTISEMENT
