Several Hard Rock Cafe locations across India have closed after global hospitality brand Hard Rock International terminated its franchise agreement with JSM Corporation Pvt Ltd, a company that operated music-themed restaurants in the country.
The Florida-based company announced the decision on Monday, confirming that it has terminated contracts with JSM Corporation and related entities that previously held the rights to operate all Hard Rock Cafes and Rock Shops in India.
As a result, Hard Rock Cafe restaurants have now closed at 10 locations in India, including major cities such as New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Pune.
Hard Rock Cafe is closing stores across India
According to a company statement, the closure will affect stores in Bengaluru, Bengaluru International Airport, Bengaluru Whitefield, Chandigarh, Chennai, Hyderabad, Hyderabad Hitech City, Kolkata, New Delhi and Pune.
These restaurants were among the most famous places for live music and nightlife in their cities, attracting both tourists and local audiences.
“Hard Rock International has formally terminated its contracts with JSM Corporation Pvt Ltd and related entities covering the right to operate all Hard Rock Cafes and Rock Shops in India,” the company said in a statement.
However, the company clarified that the Hard Rock Hotel in Goa will remain operational as it is not associated with the franchise agreement with JSM Corporation.
A popular destination for music fans
Hard Rock Cafe has built a strong presence in India over the years, especially in metropolitan cities where its outlets have become known for live performances, themed events and music memorabilia.
Restaurants often displayed guitars, costumes and other collectibles from famous artists, creating a unique environment that blended dining with music culture.
Many outlets have also hosted live bands, international artists and DJ nights, making them popular destinations for music lovers and nightlife enthusiasts.
The closure of these stores therefore marks a significant moment for fans who have associated the brand with the country’s vibrant music and entertainment scene.
A global brand with a long history
Founded in 1971, Hard Rock Cafe began as a single restaurant in London before expanding into one of the world’s most recognized hospitality brands.
Today, Hard Rock International operates cafes, hotels, casinos and entertainment venues in more than 70 countries, along with retail stores that sell music-themed merchandise.
The company did not disclose the reason for terminating the franchise agreement with JSM Corporation. It also did not say whether it plans to reopen cafes in India through a new operating partner in the future.
For now, the decision effectively cancels the presence of Hard Rock Cafe restaurants in several key Indian cities, leaving only the Hard Rock Hotel in Goa unaffected by the change.
