In a surprising and unexpected moment, Coldplay frontman Chris Martin thanked the concertgoers in Mumbai for “forgiving the band for all of the bad things Great Britain has done.”
His indirect apology for colonialism during the band’s performance in India caught many off guard. Martin expressed, “It’s amazing to us that you welcome us even though we are from Great Britain. Thank you for forgiving us for all of the bad things Great Britain has done.”
The British Raj lasted from 1858 to 1947, during which time Britain ruled over the Indian subcontinent. Seventy-eight years later, Coldplay’s lead singer offered an apology on behalf of Britain, a gesture no one expected at a pop concert.
Coldplay is known for its grand performances, and during this tour, Martin has kept things interesting. Earlier, in the UAE, he invited a Pakistani woman on stage, dedicating their song “Everglow” to people in Pakistan, Gaza, the West Bank, and Iran.
But the Mumbai concert apology sparked amusing reactions on social media. Some joked about demanding the return of the Koh-i-Noor diamond, which is currently part of the British Crown Jewels. Others asked for all the stolen items back, while a few humorously suggested Martin was attempting to heal generational trauma.
One commenter even asked for a “free concert next time as reparations.” If that happens, we can’t help but suggest that Pakistan, as part of the former Indian subcontinent, should get a free show too! So, how about Coldplay in Karachi?
