The global music festival is all set to return in January 2026 with a lineup that includes Linkin Park, one of the world’s most loved bands. With several international performances lined up, here’s what makes their debut special
For an entire generation that grew up in the 2000s, Linkin Park was the soundtrack to school and college life. Photo Courtesy: AFP
American rock band Linkin Park are all set to perform for the first time in India at Lollapalooza India 2026. It is a dream come true for many Indian fans who have grown up listening to their music, the same feeling that many had when Green Day performed at the 2025 edition.
A lot of fans were heartbroken when Chester Bennington passed away in 2017. With their first-ever performance in India after a 30-year-long wait, they will also make the debut with their new lead vocalist Emily Armstrong, giving fans new hope for the future.
"India has been somewhere we've wanted to play for a long time," says Mike Shinoda, adding, "Our fans there are incredibly passionate, and we can't wait to finally bring our live show to them."
As Mumbai gears up for two electrifying nights of the festival, produced by BookMyShow Live in India along with global producers, Perry Farrell and C3 Presents, at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse on January 24 and 25, many will be looking forward to the performance of their lifetime.
Here are six reasons why we think it is going to be special
A nostalgia trip for Millennials
For an entire generation that grew up in the 2000s, Linkin Park was the soundtrack to school and college life. From blasting ‘In the End’ on MP3 players to screaming along to ‘Numb’ at college jam sessions, their music defined the angst, energy and identity of millennial youth in India. Their India debut is more than a concert; it’s a collective throwback to those formative years.
Fuelling India’s band culture and college fests
Linkin Park wasn’t just a band; they were an entry point into rock and nu-metal for countless Indian teens. Their riffs and rap-rock style were staples at inter-college fests and battle-of-the-bands competitions. For many Indian musicians, covering Linkin Park was their first taste of performing live. Their debut feels like a full-circle moment for the culture they helped inspire.
Chester’s legacy lives on
Though Chester Bennington’s absence will be deeply felt during the performance his voice and lyrics remain timeless. Linkin Park’s India debut will double as a tribute to his legacy - an emotional celebration where fans can come together to honour the vocalist who gave a generation anthems of resilience, rage and release.
The soundtrack to rebellion and resilience
Linkin Park gave a voice to emotions many in India’s youth couldn’t put into words - rage, alienation, hope and healing. Their songs weren’t just hits, they were coping mechanisms during exam stress, heartbreak and identity struggles. Their India debut is a reminder of how music can be therapy at scale.
A cross-generational moment
Linkin Park’s music transcends age groups, the millennials who grew up with them, Gen Z discovering them through streaming and social media and even Gen Alpha vibing to remixes and edits. Linkin Park’s India debut goes beyond nostalgia; it’s a cultural landmark bringing together three generations under one roof.
Passing the torch: India’s rock and metal evolution
Linkin Park’s legacy lives on through India’s growing alternative scene. From Bloodywood’s international breakthrough to experimental acts like Pacifist redefining hardcore, their India debut is a reminder of how the band’s sound shaped a foundation for today’s artists to carry the torch forward.
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