The Polish extreme band Behemoth has announced the cancellation of their show in Bengaluru, India, which was scheduled for March 3rd, 2026. The band planned concert as a part of their “Chant Of The Eastern Lands” tour and had to go on the stage with NIDHOGG at Phoenix Marketcity in Bengaluru. The musicians published the following statement on their social media:

“Over the past few weeks, we and our team have received numerous credible threats stemming from religious Christian groups who have been applying pressure to authorities and to the promoter in an effort to stop the show from taking place. These threats have raised serious concerns regarding the band’s safety and security, including the possibility of arrest or physical danger.

We have been in close contact with the local promoter throughout this process. We want to make it clear that this cancellation is not the fault of the promoter, who has acted in good faith at every stage. Despite genuine efforts, it was not possible to obtain sufficient assurances that the band would be protected from legal consequences or security risks. On that basis, we have made the decision to cancel the show.

This is another example of religious fanaticism attempting to impose itself on artistic expression, something the band has recently faced in Turkey. It is deeply concerning to see what feels like a growing movement toward censorship around the world. In this modern age, artists should not face intimidation, threats, or the risk of imprisonment for performing their art.

Regardless of religion, race, or culture, freedom of expression must remain a fundamental principle. We believe it is important that people stand together in support of liberal values and creative freedom.

To our legions in India, we are deeply disappointed that we will not be able to perform for you on this occasion. We appreciate your support and hope to return soon.

Stay strong. Stay free.”

Because of similar reasons the band didn’t play in Turkey the last week. The Beşiktaş District Governor’s Office called off the two concerts in in Istanbul and Ankara. Some religious groups have defined Behemoth as a satanic propagand because of their music and visual conception. One Turkish TV operator called the band a threat to the youth and said that Behemoth is forbidden in Russia.

Behemoth said that they “always stood for creative independence and the right of artists to express themselves without censorship. Music is not a threat, but silencing it should concern anyone who values freedom of expression.”

Behemoth had other problems with the authorities in the past. Frontman Adam Nergal Darski was convicted of insulting religious feelings in Poland in 2021 for posting a photo of a foot stepping on the face of the Virgin Mary on social media.
In January 2018, Darski was formally charged by Polish authorities for insulting the national coat of arms of Poland by using a stylized white eagle with a golden beak and claws, wearing a golden crown, on the band’s artwork and merchandise.
In 2007, Nergal declared at a concert in Gdynia that the Catholic Church is “the bloodiest cult on the planet.” He tore up a copy of the Bible and called it “a book of lies.” He was charged with insulting religious feelings.