In almost every Kolkata para (neighbourhood), you will find guitar-toting youngsters who religiously rip off everything from Paul Simon to Pink Floyd and 'compose orginal Bangla band' songs.

In fact, in the mofussil towns near Kolkata, Cactus, a rock band, is probably more popular than Kaanta laga. But, alas, most international rock acts that tour India give the City of Joy a miss.   

That might change, with 'shred' guitar God Joe Satriani's upcoming India visit. On the new age axe hero's website, concert dates read like this: May 14: MMRDA grounds, Mumbai, May 15: Salt Lake city grounds, Calcutta, and May 16: Palace grounds, Bangalore.

For those of you still pinching yourself, check this link.
http://www.satriani.com/2004/road/

Photograph: Getty Images