Times when Bollywood songs met British Royalty: 'Dhoom Machale’ is not the first Indian song to resonate in the palace

For Indian audiences, the idea of Dhoom Machale—the high-energy Bollywood anthem synonymous with thrilling chases and grand heists—playing in the presence of British royalty sounds almost too surreal to be true. But at this year’s Commonwealth Day ceremony at Westminster Abbey, that’s exactly what happened.

As King Charles and Queen Camilla arrived for the annual event, the distinctive notes of Dhoom Machale filled the air, played by the Shree Muktajeevan Swamibapa Pipe Band—a Hindu Scottish ensemble known for blending traditional bagpipes with Indian musical influences. The unusual yet electrifying fusion stunned onlookers, and when a video of the moment surfaced online, it sent Indian social media into a frenzy.

Many joked that this was Hrithik Roshan’s latest disguise, referencing his royal impersonation in Dhoom 2, while others saw it as poetic justice—Bollywood’s way of reclaiming cultural ground in the land of its former colonizers. Beyond the humor, however, the performance symbolized something deeper: the ever-growing cultural footprint of Indian music in spaces once considered exclusively Western.


And while this unexpected Bollywood moment at Westminster Abbey has captivated global audiences, it wasn’t the first time Indian music made its way into Britain’s royal circles. In fact, Bollywood melodies have long had a surprising connection with the British monarchy.

A Royal Serenade: When Kanika Kapoor Sang at Buckingham Palace

Long before Dhoom Machale made its way into a royal event, another Bollywood classic resonated within the walls of Buckingham Palace. In 2018, celebrated singer Kanika Kapoor brought the soul-stirring lyrics of Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein to the royal residence during the 10th anniversary celebration of the British Asian Trust.

Hosted by then-Prince Charles, the event showcased Kapoor’s versatility as she fused Sufi elements with popular Bollywood and English songs, all under the expert curation of British music producer Naughty Boy. Ending the evening with Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein—a song that has defined Bollywood romance for generations—was a moment of cultural confluence that few could have predicted.

A Lullaby for a Prince: Rajasthani Brass Band’s Special Performance

Even before Bollywood’s reigning singers made their way to Buckingham Palace, an Indian musical ensemble had already left its mark on a historic royal celebration. In 2014, as Britain welcomed the birth of Prince George Alexander Louis, the heir to Prince William and Kate Middleton, a special performance was arranged to honor the newborn. And who better to bring the celebration to life than Jaipur’s Kawa Brass Band?

Known for their lively fusion of traditional Rajasthani and Western brass band music, the ensemble began their performance with Chanda Hai Tu Mera Sooraj Hai Tu—a lullaby that has lulled Indian children to sleep for generations. It was an unexpected yet heartwarming choice, one that added a touch of Indian nostalgia to a quintessentially British occasion.

But the band didn’t stop there. They soon transitioned into Welcome Home, a Beatles classic, before concluding with the evergreen Bollywood hit Papa Kehte Hain. The sight of a traditional Indian brass band performing inside the regal confines of Buckingham Palace was a testament to music’s ability to transcend cultures, languages, and borders.

Hameed Khan Kawa, the band’s leader, recalled while talking to Times of India how the invitation came about: “Prince Charles had seen us perform in London in 2003, and he wanted us to be part of this special moment for his family. It was an honor to bring Indian music into such an intimate royal celebration.”

Bollywood’s Enduring Royal Connection

The appearance of Bollywood music in royal settings might seem surprising at first, but in many ways, it is a natural outcome of the deep ties between India and Britain. From colonial history to modern-day migration, Indian culture has woven itself into the very fabric of British life. Today, the influence of Bollywood—once confined to cinema halls—has expanded to global concert stages, diplomatic events, and even the royal residences of Britain’s most powerful family.

With Dhoom Machale adding yet another chapter to this unique relationship, one can only wonder: what’s next? A full-fledged Bollywood dance routine at a royal wedding? A classical Indian symphony at a coronation? Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain—Indian music has found its place in British high society, and it’s here to stay.