German hard rock icons Scorpions have been forced to cancel their long-awaited return to India, just days before the start of their scheduled shows.
The announcement was made by promoter BookMyShow Live, who confirmed the cancellation and explained that the decision was due to health-related issues within the band.
The statement reads: “We regret to inform you that the Scorpions ‘Coming Home’ India Tour scheduled in Shillong on April 21st, Delhi-NCR on April 24th, Bengaluru on April 26th and Mumbai on April 30th, stands cancelled due to unforeseen medical circumstances affecting the band members.
“We apologise for the inconvenience and disappointment caused to fans. The band are very keen to perform in India when possible and within their schedule. All the tickets purchased on bookmyshow will be automatically refunded within 7-10 working days.”
The cancellation comes as a major disappointment for fans, as the shows were set to mark the band’s first visit to India in nearly 18 years. Their last performance in the country dates back to 2007.
The tour was part of Scorpions’ “Coming Home” world tour, celebrating an incredible 60-year career. India had been set to host four major stadium shows, including Shillong on April 21 at RBDSA Sports Complex, Delhi-NCR on April 24 at HUDA Grounds in Gurugram, Bengaluru on April 26 at NICE Grounds, and Mumbai on April 30 at Jio Gardens in BKC.
Despite the sudden setback, the band had previously expressed excitement about returning to Indian stages. Speaking to Rolling Stone India earlier this month, vocalist Klaus Meine reflected on their continued passion for touring: “We still enjoy what we’re doing. We’re still very passionate about things and very excited to go on this road ahead,” he said.
He also added: “We’re still standing, god knows how long we can do this. We’re getting older every year, but when we see the fans in front of the stage, we get so much energy and power back from our fans that we’re still young at heart.”
At this stage, no rescheduled dates have been announced, but the band has indicated they remain eager to perform in India in the future when circumstances allow.
