Pune: The new venue for Bacardi NH7 Weekender -- Mahalaxmi Lawns on Nagar Road, has proved to be a good idea so far because of ample parking space right in front of the venue.
Though the organisers charge Rs 100 for a two-wheeler, it doesn’t really pinch the pocket because it saves you the hassle of walking at least a kilometre to reach your vehicle, which was the case in the past years.
To inspire the mood, the festival is a riot of colours. Right from the design of the stages to the bar, the bazaar to the eating area, where various art installations are displayed, the entire area feels like a rainbow has melted over it.
For adults who loathe the fact that they aren’t allowed into bouncing castles at kiddie parties anymore, there is good news. The Bacardi Vivid area, where the comedians perform stand-up hidden away from the rest of the stages, there is a ‘Breezer Twister’, which is a adult-sized inflated platform with coloured dots for you to play the game (with some bounce) with your squad.
Coming to the performances, Zokova and Aditi Ramesh kicked off the festival at two different stages. The Irish band Girls Names created quite a stir among the crowd with their energetic performance. Carnatic artiste TM Krishna, rock band Scribe, London-based Capella outfit The Magnets and Dutch metal progressive band Textures, who played their final show ever as part of their Last Miles To The Moon tour, were highlights of the day.
Besides music
† The bazaar has interesting stalls, in particular the Hair Drama booth which offers festival goers a makeover to get into the mood. At the full-fledged ‘hair bar’, you can choose a head band - floral, ornamental, or the Great Gatsby styles - get temporary glittery highlights, various types of braids and so on. If you don’t want any drama on your hair, you can try some glitter tattoos on your face too.
† The Blur Stalk had an interesting collection of sunglasses and stalls displayed t-shirts with witty pop culture quotes.
† Going a step further and making the experience a happy ‘mela’, you have the Ferris wheel to hop into.
† There are many photo booths making this place a haven for the social media obsessed. Hop into the Bacardi House Party bath tub, or stand against the board with illuminated bat wings for a snazzy click.
† Water is sold at the venue for Rs 10 per glass, but you can bring sealed water bottles if you get too thirsty.
