In My Hood: Out and About in Indiranagar, Bengaluru

I especially enjoy partying with friends in the nightlife district of Indiranagar. We are always discovering new bars and restaurants in this area. In a city that is growing and changing as fast as Bengaluru, this is no surprise. The population of my hometown has tripled to nearly 15 million in the last 25 years alone. The energy levels are correspondingly high. This is the case at the Toit Brewpub, where I would recommend the Basmati Blonde Ale. Or at the gastropub Watson’s, where a very popular karaoke party is held several times a week. 

Old-school rock from the likes of Led Zeppelin and Queen can be heard in many bars. In Bengaluru, people love crunchy rock guitar sounds as much as they like beer. For local musicians, the city’s many pubs are the ideal place to build their career. For me and my band, it was also the perfect starting point. If it’s your first time in town, be sure to try the South Indian specialty idli – steamed rice cakes with lentils – at Rameshwaram Cafe. I also highly recommend the salads, burgers, and the risotto at Smoke House Deli. 

During the day, the area is great for shopping. At the over 100-year-old P N RAO Fine Suits, my band and I had colorful suits tailored for a performance, and at Chumbak you can find stylish souvenirs that are anything but typical Indian kitsch. If you want to feel the nostalgic flair of the city, have a cocktail at the magnificent Library Bar located in The Leela Palace.

By the way, Bengaluru is not only a party city, but is also very green, which has earned it the nickname “Garden City of India.” My tip for a few relaxing hours outdoors: the parks of the Defence Colony.

Behram Siganporia is the lead singer of the pop group Best Kept Secret. Over the years, the band from Bengaluru has built up a large fan base in the pubs of Indiranagar and now performs around the world. At Indian weddings, the band is often cheered on by more than 1,000 guests.