Delhi witnessed a captivating blend of football fervor and musical brilliance as Coke Studio Bharat LIVE made its debut in India on January 11, 2026. The event, held at NSIC Exhibition Grounds, Gate 6, in Delhi, saw Aditya Rikhari ignite the stage with his performance, particularly his rendition of "Ae Ajnabee".
The live concert was part of a two-day celebration marking the arrival of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Trophy in India, powered by Coca-Cola. The event successfully transformed the digital experience of Coke Studio Bharat into a vibrant and unforgettable live performance. It offered a unique fusion of traditional melodies and modern beats, creating an electrifying atmosphere for the audience.
Aditya Rikhari, known for his soulful and versatile voice, was among the talented artists who graced the stage. The lineup also included Shreya Ghoshal, Rashmeet Kaur, and the duo Divyam X Khwaab, each bringing their unique style and energy to the performance. The concert aimed to celebrate the diversity of Indian music, blending timeless traditions with fresh, contemporary sounds.
The evening reached a crescendo when Brazilian football legend Gilberto Silva made a special appearance on stage, accompanied by the FIFA World Cup Trophy. The crowd erupted in cheers, creating one of the most memorable moments of the night. This further amplified the electric atmosphere, seamlessly merging the worlds of sports and music.
Coke Studio Bharat LIVE sought to bridge culture across generations by reintroducing Gen Z to India's musical roots through contemporary collaborations. Aditya Rikhari has expressed that being part of the first-ever Coke Studio Bharat LIVE is a celebration of what music truly means: connection, culture, and creative courage. His songs have always been about honesty in feeling and storytelling, and Coke Studio's spirit of authenticity and experimentation resonates deeply with him.
The NSIC Exhibition Grounds were transformed into a vibrant "football carnival," featuring freestyle football zones, interactive engagement areas, and immersive brand experiences. Professional freestylers showcased their skills, while fans participated in football challenges and activity-led installations. Food zones, open social spaces, and interactive hubs further enhanced the experience, turning the trophy exhibition into a full-scale football festival. Adding to the excitement were appearances by celebrities such as actor Varun Sood, Indian men's team goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, former Indian professional footballer Robin Singh, and India women's team defender Dalima Chhibber.
The event marked a significant milestone in promoting India's growing presence in the global football ecosystem ahead of the 2026 tournament. The concert provided a high-energy cultural conclusion to the two-day celebration, leaving fans with unforgettable memories. Following the Delhi showcase, the FIFA World Cup 2026 Trophy tour moved to Guwahati.
