Major cities across India are geared up for a fun March, with the most versatile set of events. We’re talking one-of-a-kind Holi bashes, flea markets, musical performances, art galleries, and more. Here’s a look at a few we’re pencilling in our calendars.
March is a festive month, with the celebration of good over evil – Holi – leading to a series of verdant hues populating the streets weeks prior to the day itself. Add to that, International Women’s Day – and there are plenty of reasons to step out this month. And brands across the country have got the memo – setting up a series of exciting flea markets, poetry performances, musical acts, and more. Whether you’re the kind to enjoy the serenity of art galleries or prefer being in the midst of the bustle of a concert – there’s something in store or everyone. Here’s a look at the best events in India for this month.
Events in March that are on our social radar
Bengaluru
Indonesian Food Festival
Known for bringing the most innovative bites and events to the fore, Gawky Goose has an exciting food festival in store this month. A celebration of Indonesian food , on offer are delicacies like Ayam Goreng, Bakwan Jagung, Ikam Baher, Sambal, Satay, and Siomay Bai – amongst others. Dessert aficionados – don’t miss out on the Kue Pisanag (steamed rice and banana cake with tender coconut ice cream) and Dada Guling (pandan-flavoured stuffed crepes. These pair like a dream with their cocktails like Pink Haze, Tipsy Unicorn, and Rob Robin. You could also take pickles, jams, and chutneys like sambal mangga, bacon jam, apricot chilli chutney, tuna pickle, and more back home with you. Best part? There’s a special space for pet parents and their furry babies as well.
Where: Gawky Goose, #77, Wind Tunnel Rd, Muniyappa Layout, Murgesh Pallya, Bengaluru
When: Until April 1
“Pah-Lak”, Tibetan Theatre Production
If you’re in Bangalore, don’t miss out on this riveting retelling of the story of a self-confident young Buddhist nun who resists re-education measures by the Chinese authorities with her peers. Spotlighting resistance, non-violence, and the decades of oppression faced by Tibetans, this play – titled Pah Lak – is courtesy of NCPA in collaboration with Tibet Theatre and Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA). Reflecting on this, writer and director Lhakpa Tsering notes, “ This collaborative project provides the Tibetan artists the opportunity to deeply engage, share experiences and introspect about Tibetan culture and history.” Don’t miss out.
When: March 17,18
Where: Ranga Shankara, 36/2, 8th Cross Road, R K Colony, 2nd Phase, J. P. Nagar
Esplanade – Thakurbarir Ranna food festival
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If you enjoy Bengali food – or are yet to experience its deliciousness – head on over to specialty restaurant Esplanade which will spotlight a range of vegetarian delicacies this month as a part of their first ever food festival. On offer are Mochar Dhokar Dalna, Chalkumror Bora, Stuffed Pea Paratha, Chanar Pulao, Baked Rasgulla, Mishti Doi, and more. Prices start from INR 295. Need we say more?
When: Until March 31
Where: 202, Paramahansa Yogananda Rd, Indira Nagar II Stage, Hoysala Nagar
Shefs at the Leela
In honour of International Women’s Day, The Leela Bengaluru has a three-day culinary celebration in store – across restaurants Jamavar, Citrus, and Zen. The one-of-a-kind event will bring together some of India’s most revered women, known for adding their own unique spin to their traditional roots. Spotlighted are chef Wimon Pahuja, a Thai food expert who forages her own ingredients; chef Sri Bala, who champions South Indian cuisine and meticulously chooses her ingredients; and chef Karen Yepthomi who creates magic with Naga ingredients and was awarded the 13th National Women Excellence Award, 2020 by the Indo-European Chamber of Small & Medium Enterprises (IECSME). Don’t miss out.
Where: 23, HAL Old Airport Rd, HAL 2nd Stage, Kodihalli, Bengaluru
When: March 6,7, and 8
The Bucket List by Suzy Q
If you enjoy small plates, Suzy Q is where you need to be this month. The swanky space is playing host to the most delicious tapas from across the world – including verduras taquitos and mini tacos from Mexico, empanadillas gallegas from Spain, and callaloo pilau jerk chicken balls from the Caribbean Islands. Also recommended? Egyptian king crab koshari, Middle Eastern dujajat fatayer, and Turkish lamb lahmajun. Need we say more?
Where: Suzy Q, Indian Express Building, No 1, Queens Road, Bangalore
When: Until March 31
Mumbai
#HGStreet Festival 2023
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If you’re in the maximum city, this month is all about a one-of-a-kind celebration of all things homegrown and South Asian – from music, art, and food to photography, sports, and film. On the itinerary for the two-day fiesta are five stages, 40 acts, four after-parties, four immersive brand labs, eight exhibitions, six workshops, six panels, and a fashion show, amongst other events. Thirty visual artists and fifteen homegrown brands add to the festivities. Head on over to the 80,000 sq. ft. space for the experience of a lifetime.
Where: Richardson and Cruddas Mills, Byculla
When: March 18-19
The Big Turf Carnival
For a weekend of flea markets, homegrown delicacies, and a host of fun activities – BookMyShow has curated The Big Turf Carnival. The first of its kind, the event will feature horse races in the evening, the world’s largest inflatable obstacle course, caricature artist, foot massages arranged by the National Association for Blind (NAB), and a host of other unique experiences. We’re also grabbing our bowls of popcorn for a movie under the stars. Don’t miss out!
Where: Mahalaxmi Race Course
When: March 18-19
Macaqophony by Gargi Chandola at Method Kalaghoda
Art aficionados, this March has a showcase of traditional Indian miniatures in store, courtesy of self-trained visual artist Gargi Chandola. Spotlighted at this event in India are stories of an anonymous woman who protects, vies for, and collects her most precious resource, the banana. Also featured is a monkey with a similar goal. Together, they spark a conversation about humanity and its psyche. Don’t miss out. For more information, head here.
Where: Method Kalaghoda, 86, Nagindas Master Rd, Kala Ghoda, Fort
When: Until March 12
Goa
Street Food Festival
Channelling the flavours of India – Delhi, Lucknow, Mumbai, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Northeast Region, Kerala, and Kolkata – the street food festival at Hilton Goa Resort promises to be a walk down memory lane. On offer are childhood favourites sweet and savoury specialties from these different regions across several live stations and counters. Need we say more?
Where: Hilton Goa Resort, Saipem Hills – Candolim
When: March 25-26, 7:00 pm onwards
Delhi-NCR
SAUCE by SOCIAL
The second edition of SAUCE – by hospitality brand SOCIAL and Johnnie Walker – will feature the most exciting set of immersive experiences, musical acts, and eclectic art and NFT showcases.We’re talking performances by Manu Chao, Seedhe Maut, Yellow Diary, Sandunes, RedVeil, and Parvaaz. The Art Garden, meanwhile, will feature work by young creatives like Aaquid Wani and Sajid Wajid Shaikh. There’s also an NFT gallery to champion inclusivity as well as fun games like sneaker pong, lace up, and treasure hunt with jaw-dropping prizes. Don’t miss out on the range of fashion brands like Natty Garb, SUGGA, Evemen, and Lab88. This is a three-city affair – with line-ups slated for Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai. Head here for more information.
Where: 1AQ, Near Qutab Minar, Seth Sarai, Mehrauli, New Delhi
When: March 18, 12:00 pm-10:00 pm
Tarasha’s Design Direct Exhibition
If you’re in India’s capital, strap on for a one-of-a-kind event of artisan-designer collaborations that aims to promote craft and innovation within it. This will bring designers, design houses, architects, brands, craft enthusiasts, and more together under the same roof. Ritika Gandhi, Anchor, Project Tarasha notes “We believe that craft and design are two faces of the same coin. In fact, in the Indian context, craft and design have always been used interchangeably. However, in the last two decades or so, the dynamic has shifted, skewing towards designers and reducing artisans to mere manufacturers or suppliers. This event illustrates an equitable artisan-designer collaboration with focus on inclusive design, co-learning, co-creating, and two-way knowledge transfer.”
When: March 18-19, 11:30 am – 7:00 pm
Where: Craft Village, 19B, Shivaji Marg, West End Greens, Rangpuri, New Delhi, India
Sinf-e-Ahanan – Story of Strong Women
A set of women poets and storytellers – including revered names like Nidhi Kaushik and Swetcha Prasad – are set to take the stage this month to celebrate the resilience of women and tell stories that deserve to be heard. Giving voice and agency to a community of strong humans, the event – titled Sinf-e-Ahan – is non-ticketed and accessible to everyone. Don’t miss out.
Where: The Comedy Theatre, Gurgaon
When: March 4, 1:00 pm onwards
IBTIDA – Ek Mehfil presents ‘Gul- Phoolon ki Holi’
In the spirit of Holi – IBTIDA has a unique celebration in store. On offer is a sundowner marked by the flowers of India, sans colours and water. Recreating Vrindavan while staying true to the spirit of coming together – this event will also feature the melodious voice of award-winning singer Kavita Seth. Don’t miss out on the romance of it all and for more information, head here.
Where: Amaara Farms, Delhi
When: March 5
Which of these events in India do you most look forward to heading to this month?
All images: Courtesy Brands/Shutterstock
Eshita is a food, alcohol, travel, and entertainment writer who spends her days thinking of the next big trend to write about. She’s a communication graduate with bylines in Conde Nast Traveller India, GQ India, Deccan Herald, and Girls Buzz. When not at work, you’re likely to find her hunting for a good read or charting out the perfect itinerary for a solo trip across Asia.
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