Grammy-winning South African singer Tyla makes India debut in Mumbai

South African Grammy-winning sensation Tyla made her much-awaited debut in India yesterday, lighting up Mumbai with a high-energy performance at the Indian Sneaker Festival 2025. The 23-year-old Afropop star, famous for her viral hit Water , enthralled thousands of fans at the MMRDA Grounds in Bandra Kurla Complex, delivering a show that marked a memorable moment in the city’s music scene.

Tyla’s multicultural roots add a rich layer to her artistry. Her father, Sherwin Seethal, originates from Mauritius and has Indian heritage, while her South African mother brings Zulu and Irish lineage to the mix. This diverse background has shaped Tyla’s unique sound, blending Afropop, pop, and global influences.

The two-day festival, which began on December 6, has emerged as one of India’s top youth-culture events, blending music, fashion, and sneaker artistry. Tyla’s set, one of the evening’s highlights, featured her signature Afropop sound and fan-favourite tracks including Water , Truth or Dare , Jump , Bliss , and her latest release Chanel . Water remains her most celebrated song, earning her a Grammy and making her one of the youngest African artists to receive the honour.

Joining her on the lineup were international stars like American rapper Lil Yachty and Belgian techno DJ Charlotte de Witte, adding to the festival’s eclectic mix of music from around the world. Speaking before her performance, Tyla had expressed her excitement: “It’s incredible to see such a vibrant landscape dedicated to sneaker and street culture in India. I’m thrilled to connect with all my fans here for the very first time.”

The Mumbai edition drew massive crowds, highlighting the growing appetite for global music experiences in India and the rising influence of Afropop. Fans were treated to a vibrant, high-energy show that is likely to be remembered as a landmark moment in the city’s music calendar, cementing Tyla’s debut as a cultural milestone.