Coldplay’s highly anticipated tour in India turned out to be a massive financial success, reportedly generating nearly Rs 600 crore in ticket sales. An influencer on Instagram recently broke down the numbers, highlighting the staggering revenue and drawing a sarcastic comparison to India’s colonial past.

According to the influencer’s analysis, the British band performed five concerts in India, with a total estimated attendance of 4,42,000 people. With an average ticket price of Rs 13,500, the total revenue from ticket sales alone amounted to approximately Rs 596.7 crore, rounding up to a jaw-dropping Rs 600 crore.

While this figure does not include additional revenue streams such as merchandise sales, sponsorships, and streaming rights, it underscores the sheer scale of Coldplay’s commercial success in India.

The Republic Day irony

What caught the attention of many was the timing of Coldplay’s final concert, which took place on January 26, India’s Republic Day. The influencer, drawing a historical parallel, quipped, “They looted us again,” in a sarcastic nod to the British colonial era.

The comparison quickly gained traction online, sparking debates about foreign artists profiting from Indian audiences. While some found the remark humorous and thought-provoking, others argued that the band’s tour was a celebration of global music and should not be viewed through a political lens.

Pakistan GDP remark adds to the satire

In another satirical comment, the influencer compared Coldplay’s revenue from their India tour to Pakistan’s GDP, humorously suggesting that the earnings exceeded the economic output of the neighboring country. While factually exaggerated, the remark resonated with many fans and social media users, fueling further discussions on the economic impact of international music concerts in India.

The business of concerts in India

Coldplay is not the only international act to witness massive commercial success in India. With an expanding market for live performances, India has emerged as a lucrative destination for global artists. Other big names, such as Ed Sheeran and U2, have also drawn large crowds, leading to record-breaking earnings in recent years.

While ticket prices for such events remain out of reach for many, the demand for international concerts continues to grow, reflecting a shift in India’s entertainment landscape.