Shillong, March 24: When a globally acclaimed band like Def Leppard arrives in India, the choice of opening acts carries significant weight. For its upcoming India tour, curated by BookMyShow Live, the spotlight will firmly be on homegrown talent, beginning with Nagaland-based outfit Trance Effect.
The band is set to open the Shillong concert on March 25 at the RBDSA Sports Complex, marking a notable milestone in its musical journey. The city, widely regarded as India’s rock capital, provides a fitting stage for the group, which has steadily expanded its presence beyond the Northeast. Earlier this year, Trance Effect performed at Lollapalooza India alongside international acts such as Linkin Park, LANY and Kehlani, followed by appearances at festivals in Thailand and Vietnam.
The tour will then move to Mumbai on March 27, where veteran Indian rock band Indus Creed will take over opening duties. Known for shaping India’s rock scene since the late 1980s, the band continues to command a strong following with enduring tracks such as Rock N Roll Renegade and Fireflies.
The final leg in Bengaluru on March 29 will feature Thermal And A Quarter, a group celebrated for its genre-blending sound that incorporates elements of alternative rock, jazz, funk and soul. With a career spanning over two decades, the band has built a loyal audience and remains a prominent force in India’s live music circuit.
The line-up reflects a broader shift in how international tours are being positioned in India, with established domestic acts sharing the stage rather than serving as peripheral additions. Industry observers note that such programming underscores the depth and evolution of India’s rock ecosystem, particularly as global tours increasingly include Indian cities.
With Shillong hosting the opening night, the tour not only highlights international appeal but also reinforces the growing recognition of Indian rock talent on major platforms.
