On a recent evening in Mumbai, a roomful of people sat cross-legged on white gaddas in a crumbling cotton mill that once smelled of industrial damp but now had hints of mogra and attar wafting through. Chandelier floor lamps stood where massive iron spindles once did, and carpets hung where powerlooms rattled.
The Rise of Intimate Gatherings
There were no strobes, barricades or crowds craning for a glimpse of someone very small and famous on a very large LED screen. Instead, about 150 people sat close enough to watch director Vishal Bhardwaj drift between cinema, music and verse, pausing in between to tell stories about feeling intimidated during his first recording with Lata Mangeshkar or attempting the jazz number 'An Evening in Paris' on harmonium and tabla.
This scene is part of a growing trend in Mumbai where traditional mehfils are making a comeback. These gatherings, characterized by their intimate setting, cultural performances, and traditional decor elements like gaddas and gajras, offer an alternative to large-scale concerts and events. The focus is on connection and artistry rather than spectacle.
Why Mehfils Are Gaining Popularity
Several factors contribute to the resurgence of mehfils. First, audiences are seeking more personal and immersive experiences. Second, there is a renewed interest in traditional arts and crafts. Third, the format allows for deeper interaction between performers and attendees. Finally, the use of natural elements like mogra and attar creates a sensory experience that cannot be replicated in larger venues.
As mehfils continue to gain traction, they are expected to become a staple in Mumbai's cultural calendar, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and contemporary relevance.
