When global superstar Ed Sheeran takes the stage at Perth's Optus Stadium in early 2026, his deep affection for India will resonate across the Burswood precinct. The singer-songwriter is scheduled to perform on January 31 and February 1, 2026, bringing tracks from his album 'Play' to life, including the cross-cultural single 'Sapphire'.
A Musical Fusion Forged in India
Sheeran has frequently expressed his admiration for India's culture and music, a passion that culminates in the track 'Sapphire'. While predominantly in English, the song is distinguished by its infusion of Punjabi lyrics and features the voice of Indian music icon Arijit Singh. The accompanying music video showcases the pair walking and singing together, with Singh delivering his own verse in Punjabi.
Arijit Singh, a composer, producer, and instrumentalist from Murshidabad, West Bengal, is a titan of contemporary Hindi film music. His contributions to the arts were recognised in 2025 with a Padma Shri award, one of India's highest civilian honours. The 'Sapphire' video also includes a cameo from Bollywood legend Shah Rukh Khan, a friend of Sheeran's, who is seen enjoying the music.
Capturing India's Essence on Film
The production for 'Sapphire' was a sprawling affair across multiple Indian locations, offering a vibrant snapshot of the country. The video opens with panoramic views of Hyderabad, where Sheeran was filmed on a rooftop and riding an auto rickshaw through the famous Ramoji Film City. Scenes then shift to the historic streets of Kolkata's Azimganj and Jiaganj areas, where Sheeran and Singh ride a scooter and later, Sheeran is seen on a traditional barge on the River Hooghly at dusk.
Additional footage was captured in Shillong, Meghalaya, where Sheeran joined a spontaneous football match with local children and rode the local Bos Smit bus service. This filming likely coincided with his concert there in February 2025, part of his '+-=/x Tour' that visited six Indian cities including Pune, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Shillong, and Delhi.
An Album Finished on Goan Shores
Sheeran's connection to India extended beyond the music video. He completed his 'Play' album in Goa, where he incorporated the talents of local musicians into the final recordings. This immersive experience across the subcontinent has left an indelible mark on his work, which Australian audiences will witness firsthand during the Perth stadium shows.
The upcoming performances promise to be more than just a concert; they are a celebration of global musical fusion, directly inspired by Sheeran's profound journey through India's landscapes and soundscapes.
