Behemoth Cancels Bangalore Concert Over Christian Threats

Polish extreme metal band Behemoth canceled their scheduled concert in Bangalore, India, on March 3 due to credible threats from religious Christian groups that raised concerns over the performers' safety and potential legal repercussions.

The Polish group, known for their provocative black metal style, announced the decision on social media on February 16. The performance was part of their Chant of the Eastern Lands tour and was set to take place at Phoenix Marketcity in Bengaluru, alongside supporting act Nidhogg. Organizers had promoted the event through the BigHorn festival and gig series, presented by SkillBox.

In a detailed statement, Behemoth explained that over recent weeks, they and their team had received multiple threats from Christian groups pressuring local authorities and the promoter to halt the show. "These threats have raised serious concerns regarding the band's safety and security, including the possibility of arrest or physical danger," the band wrote. They emphasized close coordination with the local promoter, who they said acted in good faith throughout the process. Despite those efforts, sufficient guarantees could not be secured to protect against legal...