Mumbai Show Marks Grand Comeback of Iconic Rock Band Amid Soaring Fan Energy and Venue Woes
Mumbai, May 18 — Legendary American rock band Guns N' Roses lit up the Mahalaxmi Race Course on Saturday evening, marking their return to India after a 12-year hiatus. The high-energy performance, lasting over three hours, saw fans from across generations turning up in droves to witness the iconic group perform live in Mumbai.Taking the stage around 7 pm, Axl Rose, Slash, Duff McKagan, Richard Fortus, Izzy Stradlin, Isaac Carpenter, Dizzy Reed, and Melissa Reese thrilled a packed audience with a powerful setlist of more than 25 songs. Timeless hits like “Welcome to the Jungle”, “It’s So Easy”, “Pretty Tied Up”, “Yesterday”, “November Rain”, and “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” evoked nostalgia and wild enthusiasm from attendees.
This was the first major international concert held in the city after Operation Sindoor, and thousands of fans — from teenagers to senior citizens — queued up from as early as 3 pm, armed with hand and portable fans to fight off Mumbai’s oppressive humidity.
A Crowd United by Rock, From All Corners of India
The diverse crowd included fans from cities such as New Delhi, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. A 68-year-old woman from Bengaluru danced unreservedly to the band's classics, calling “November Rain” and “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” her lifelong favorites.Two cousins, one from Bengaluru and the other from Kolkata, echoed the sentiment, describing the experience as “worth traveling the miles.”
Unlike several global artists who perform in India, including Ed Sheeran, Coldplay’s Chris Martin, Maroon 5, and Shawn Mendes, Guns N' Roses let the music do the talking. Axl Rose only briefly addressed the crowd, saying, “I’m having a nice time, hope you are having it too.”
Towards the concert's end, Slash amped up the excitement by throwing his jacket and ring into the crowd, creating unforgettable moments for a few lucky fans.
Indian Band Opens, BookMyShow Faces Backlash
The evening kicked off with Indian rock band Girish and the Chronicles, who warmed up the crowd for the main act.While the music struck the right chords, the event’s logistics and infrastructure came under fire. Organised by BookMyShow, the concert faced criticism for lack of basic amenities. Fans pointed out issues such as poor food arrangements, unpalatable water, and a lack of cooling solutions amid humid conditions.
Attendees also flagged transport woes. A couple in their late 50s, who came with their teenage daughters, said it took them nearly an hour to exit the venue. “They should have arranged transport, especially for senior citizens,” they added.
Despite the setbacks, the electrifying return of Guns N' Roses left a strong emotional imprint, reminding India why the band’s legacy still roars loud and clear.