Coachella 2025 Goes Desi: From Chenda Melam To 90s Indie Pop Rock

The California desert pulsed with the vibrant energy of South Asia this weekend, as Indo Warehouse delivered a cultural explosion at one of the world’s biggest music festivals—Coachella.

While global icon Lady Gaga headlined the main stage, it was New York-based DJ-producer duo Indo Warehouse—Kunal Merchant and Armaan Gupta, aka Kahani—who stole hearts and headlines on April 12 with a sensational debut performance. Blending traditional Indian sounds with deep house and techno, their set transformed the festival into what fans are now calling an “IndoChella.”

More than just a performance, their act was a dynamic tribute to their South Asian roots. The duo brought the heat with thunderous Punjabi dhol rhythms and the festive tempo of Gujarati Garba. Dancers in vibrant traditional attire twirled across the stage, turning the desert into a dazzling desi dancefloor.

The evening kicked off with rapper Hanumankind, whose high-octane set—backed by live dhol players—primed the crowd with energy. But it was Indo Warehouse that delivered the knockout blow, seamlessly fusing folk traditions with electronic energy, creating a moment that felt both global and deeply personal.

After the show, Kunal and Kahani shared their gratitude on social media:
"From our roots to the desert, Coachella Weekend 1 was more than a show—it was a statement. Thank you for feeling every beat with us. The journey continues."

The moment didn’t go unnoticed. Actor and global superstar Priyanka Chopra shared reels of Indo Warehouse and Hanumankind on her Instagram Stories, applauding both acts for spotlighting South Asian culture on such a massive international stage.

Founded in New York, Indo Warehouse is more than just a musical duo—it’s a record label and movement that aims to elevate South Asian-inspired house music. Their signature sound blends classical Indian instruments, vocals, and rhythms with modern house and techno, creating a cross-cultural experience that resonates far beyond the dance floor.