More than half the people attending Coldplay concerts in India don’t even know who Chris Martin is.

They don’t know the songs, the band members or the legacy of the band, and much of India seems trapped in FOMO, rushing to buy overpriced tickets.

But maybe that’s not the worst thing. Since when did art become exclusive to hardcore curators of it?

I bought my ticket because a friend was going. I’m not the biggest fan of the band and no I didn’t cry during the performance of ‘Fix You’.

But I do enjoy some of their songs and was left stunned by the absolutely gorgeous performance put up by the band.

Breathtaking visuals, superb music and ethereal energy. What’s not to love?

And even if nothing else, I met some amazing people at the venue and opened myself a door to new heart touching music. And if that’s not the purpose of art then I don’t know what is!

I understand the frustration of not being able to materialise one’s passion when such occasions are so far and in between without life getting in the way. But art has forever been about inclusivity and connection rather than gatekeeping. So it’s fine to let others enjoy their moment in the sun every once in a while.

And much of the social media cribbing comes from those who themselves barely have any idea of Coldplay’s true legacy. And maybe the fear of missing out on something isn’t as bad as it’s sometimes made out to be, especially if it leads to something memorable.

‘FOMO’ got me to appreciate a fellow artist and that’s just the kind of proud I’d want to feel about myself. I have zero regrets for having bought expensive tickets for an event that I would have normally not gone to if not for accompanying a friend.

So the next time some supposed gatekeepers of art crib to you about ‘non-fans’ attending events they couldn’t get tickets to – gently remind them of art’s inclusivity by confidently singing the wrong lyrics as you walk past them!