India’s rock legacy takes centre stage once again with Tribute to Human Bondage, a soul-stirring concert series that reunites original members of the iconic 1970s rock band Human Bondage with the contemporary jazz-fusion sound of the Rajeev Raja Combine. The tour celebrates the raw energy, rebellion, and cultural impact that defined India’s formative rock years.

Presented by BLR Airport as Title Sponsor with Air India Express as Official Travel Partner, the three-city musical celebration opens in Bengaluru, travels to Goa, and culminates in Mumbai, offering audiences a rare opportunity to relive a defining chapter of Indian music history.

Bengaluru, where Human Bondage’s roots are deeply intertwined with the city’s early rock movement, serves as the fitting launchpad for the tribute. Founder members Henry “Babu” Joseph and Ramesh Shotham will perform across Bengaluru venues, joined by Radha Thomas at BLR Hubba, alongside the Rajeev Raja Combine. Together, they bring alive the timeless soundscape of a band that reshaped Indian rock music through the 1970s and 1980s.

Human Bondage remains etched in the memory of rock aficionados for its pioneering role in India’s independent music movement. Over the years, the band’s evolving line-up included Henry “Babu” Joseph (vocals), Radha Thomas (vocals), Suresh Shottam (guitar), Ramesh Shotham (drums and percussion), Steve Law (keyboards), Fred Manricks (keys), Xerxes Gobhai and Vinty Bunyan (bass), with Gasper D’Souza as manager.

Speaking about the collaboration, Rajeev Raja said, “Growing up in Bengaluru, I had heard stories of the iconic band Human Bondage, which greatly inspired me. As a young musician, Babu Joseph was also a mentor who encouraged me immensely. I’m delighted to be sharing the stage with the founder members of Human Bondage and bringing alive their music with my band.”

Founder member Henry ‘Babu’ Joseph added, “I’m really delighted and excited to be playing with my ex-band mates and Rajeev Raja Combine in Bengaluru, my hometown. I’m also happy to be playing in Goa and Bombay—three major cities where we performed in the 70s.”

Beyond music, the collaboration reflects BLR Airport’s identity as a vibrant hub of art, culture, and entertainment, reinforcing its commitment to creating meaningful cultural experiences. The tour also aligns with Air India Express’s ‘Tales of India’ initiative, which celebrates indigenous art and culture, extending the airline’s deep engagement with community-led music and arts platforms.

Tribute to Human Bondage is more than a concert—it is a celebration of an era and a reminder of live music as a shared, immersive experience. By bringing together generations of musicians and audiences, the series ensures that the legacy of Indian rock continues to grow, evolve, and inspire rather than simply be remembered.