Shawn Mendes honors Virat Kohli, sports Team India jersey at Lollapalooza Mumbai

Canadian pop sensation Shawn Mendes made his highly anticipated India debut at Lollapalooza 2025 in Mumbai, delivering a spectacular performance that left fans in awe. The concert, held at the Mahalaxmi Racecourse on March 8, saw Mendes not only perform his chart-topping hits but also pay a heartfelt tribute to Team India and cricket legend Virat Kohli.

A defining moment of the night came when Mendes surprised the audience by donning a Team India jersey with 'Virat' emblazoned on the back. The gesture sent the crowd into a frenzy, as he proudly wore the blue jersey in honor of Indian cricket and its passionate fanbase. Several videos and pictures of the singer sporting the jersey flooded social media, showcasing his deep respect for Kohli’s legacy and India's sporting spirit. The tribute resonated with both cricket and music fans alike, solidifying Mendes’ bond with his Indian audience.

Mendes further expressed his admiration for Team India by wishing them luck ahead of the Champions Trophy 2025 final against New Zealand, scheduled for March 9 at the Dubai International Stadium. “India, I know you have a match tomorrow. Good luck. I hope it goes well,” he said, drawing thunderous applause from the crowd. His words added to the excitement surrounding the crucial match, making the moment even more special for his Indian fans.

Beyond his tribute to Team India, Mendes also shared his love for Indian culture and music. “No matter where I go, music is the one thing that unites (people) in a beautiful way. I've always had such love and admiration for India, India's music, and its musicians here. One of the greatest, beautiful and magnificent cultures... It is amazing... I want to do something special for you guys tonight,” he said before introducing tabla and sitar players on stage, blending Indian and Western musical elements seamlessly.

The concert concluded on a high note with a breathtaking display of fireworks, illuminating the Mumbai sky as Mendes bid farewell with heartfelt words: “See you, namaste, bye-bye.”

Lollapalooza 2025 Mumbai’s opening day also featured an impressive lineup of artists, including Jonita Gandhi, Dot., Sahil Vasudeva, Frizzell D’Souza, Dhanji, and Spyryk, setting the stage for an unforgettable festival experience.

With his debut India performance, Shawn Mendes not only entertained but also created a lasting connection with his Indian fans by celebrating their passion for cricket and culture. His tribute to Team India will be remembered as one of the most iconic moments of the festival.