Gigs To Catch This Week: Shankar Mahadevan, K-Wave Fest, Junkyard Groove
From soulful piano tributes to high-energy hip-hop fests and everything in between, October has something for every music lover across India
Shankar Mahadevan. Photo: Courtesy of Gunjan Foundation
Looking for some live music action for the rest of October? This month not only marks festivals but also music festival season in full swing, so the calendar is bursting with gigs happening across India. Whether you’re into rock, hip-hop, K-pop, or just want to vibe to some old-school classics, there’s something for everyone.
Junkyard Groove (October 19th, Bengaluru)
Chennai’s seasoned rock act Junkyard Groove is back after a long break, performing at Fandom at Gilly’s Redefined in Bengaluru. Mixing everything from rock and funk to blues and country, the band still swears by rock & roll. Expect to jam to their classics like “It’s Ok” and “Say Goodbye” while grooving to newer tracks. Frontman Ameeth Thomas will definitely bring the energy and a few wise cracks, no doubt.
Where: Fandom at Gilly’s Redefined, Bengaluru.
Get tickets here.
Kingfisher Octobeer Fest (October 19th and 20th, Bengaluru)
Beer + music + killer lineup? That’s the sound of Octobeer Fest coming back. The lineup includes Raftaar, Jasleen Royal, Taba Chake, Oaff x Savera, and more, all performing across two stages. It’s the ultimate festival for those who want to sip on some cold ones while soaking in all the musical vibes. Whether you’re into hip-hop, indie, or pop, this one’s going to be a full-on banger.
Where: Jayamahal Palace Hotel, Bengaluru
Get tickets here
Candlelight: A Tribute to The Beatles (October 19th, Mumbai)
Beatles fans, it’s time to light up your night—literally. Picture this: The Beatles’ greatest hits played by a pianist under the warm glow of candles in one of Mumbai’s most iconic venues. Tavan Shah will perform beloved favorites like “Here Comes The Sun” and “Yellow Submarine.” Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love a magical evening, this one’s going to be a memorable setting.
Where: The Royal Opera House, Mumbai
Get tickets here.
Dastak-e-Dil ft Shankar Mahadevan (October 19th, New Delhi)
Virtuoso vocalist and composer Shankar Mahadevan is headlining Dastak-e-Dil, a special musical evening to celebrate 20 years of the nonprofit organization, Gunjan Foundation. Not only will you get to bask in the magic of his voice, but it’s also a fundraiser, so you’ll be vibing for a great cause. That’s a win-win.
Where: Sirifort Auditorium, New Delhi
Get tickets here.
Raghu Dixit Live (October 19th, Gurugram)
Mysuru-origin folk fusion hero Raghu Dixit is hitting the road for a multi-city tour across India after taking his album Shakkar to Europe. Gurugram is the first stop on the Shakkar India tour. Known for his electrifying live shows and soulful voice, any Raghu Dixit Project concert is high on experience. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a first-timer, this is one gig that will stay with you.
Where: Imperfecto Patio, Gurugram
Get tickets here.
Karan Kanchan’s Kitty Party (October 20th, Mumbai)
Forget everything you thought you knew about kitty parties — Karan Kanchan is throwing the coolest one ever, and you’re invited. Described as a party vibe that’ll take you back in time (with a modern twist), the producer kicks off a national tour as part of the Social Selects gig series on home ground. Oh, and don’t be surprised if Karan drops some unreleased bangers. It’s the perfect excuse to ditch the typical weekend and try something new.
Where: antiSOCIAL, Lower Parel, Mumbai
Get tickets here.
Bangers Only by Chirag Todi (October 22nd, Mumbai)
Chirag Todi is bringing the heat with his new album Bangers Only, and this is your chance to hear it live. His six-piece band is ready to take over Mumbai with sounds that blend pop, jazz, and everything in between. With a reputation for playing at festivals like NH7 Weekender and Lollapalooza India in recent years, Todi is planning a collab-heavy set in Mumbai. This gig promises to be smooth, soulful, and packed with surprises.
Where: G5A Foundation for Contemporary Culture, Mumbai
Get tickets here
The Junkie Experience (October 19th, Mumbai)
New Delhi rapper Frappe Ash is taking things up a notch with The Junkie Experience. This isn’t your typical live gig—Frappe’s blending hip-hop with live instrumentation for a truly unique show. Expect everything from high-energy trap vibes to bangers. It’s raw, it’s real, and it’s going to be a one-of-a-kind night that’s all about pushing boundaries on the back of releasing his new album Junkie.
Where: antiSOCIAL, Mumbai
Get tickets here.
K-Wave Festival (October 20th, Bengaluru)
Hailing themselves as India’s biggest K-pop festival, K-Wave festival returns to Bengaluru this week after kicking off in Mumbai on October 18th. With top acts like Suho and Hyolyn set to perform, you know the energy will be sky-high. Add in some epic dance-offs, ace Korean food, and a celebration of all things K-culture, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate K-wave experience. Whether you’re a seasoned K-pop stan or just K-curious, it’s going to be a day to remember.
Where: Phoenix Marketcity, Bengaluru
Get tickets here
Gully Fest 2024 (October 26th and 27th, Mumbai)
Calling all hip-hop heads—Gully Fest is about to take over Mumbai. Curated by none other than DIVINE, this festival is where India’s underground hip-hop scene comes to life. Expect performances from big names like Pusha T, Sambata, Yashraj, and of course, DIVINE himself. With a mix of international and homegrown talent, it’s going to be a weekend full of bars, beats, and a whole lot of heat.
Where: Nesco Center, Mumbai
Get tickets here.
