I’ve been living the quintessential bachelor-boy life this week. A foldable mattress on the floor, a five-litre water jug, and a study table. That’s about it. I was told the experience would teach me a lot, but honestly, it has mostly made me grateful for my bed frame. Moving is tedious, exhausting, and there’s really no shortcut around it.
My saving graces have been listening to Sarah Black’s 'Maname Neeyae', watching the Knicks smash Game 4, and looking forward to celebrating Pride with my friends this month.
With that in mind, this week’s curation is all about finding moments of joy, whether you’re planning to head out or stay in. From a roundup of some of the most exciting Pride events happening across the country to a Pride-themed reading list perfect for a slow Saturday evening, and a collection of gin-forward cocktail recipes to mark World Gin Day, we’ve put together a guide designed to help you unwind a little.
Here’s what we have for you this week:
This World Gin Day, we spoke to five of the country’s most inventive cocktail makers, who shared their signature gin-forward drinks that showcase the spirit through distinctly Indian lenses. The list includes everything from cocktails inspired by Osaka’s drinking culture to a recipe that lets you recreate the experience of one of Kolkata’s most iconic bars, Nutcase, in your own home, these recipes are sure to bring out your inner mixologist. Read more here.
Bombay Bandook is a Mumbai-based ensemble that blends Indian classical traditions with jazz, progressive rock, funk, folk and Western classical influences to create a distinctive contemporary fusion sound. Rooted in raag-based melodic writing, the band reinterprets classical forms through collaborative experimentation and modern arrangements. Learn more here.
Explore the Deli Boys soundtrack, where South Asian identity meets crime-comedy chaos. The series spotlights homegrown talent like Reble, Parimal Shais, and Hanumankind, blending hip-hop with cultural authenticity. Featuring a soulful Ali Sethi cameo, it showcases how music defines the modern diasporic experience. Read more here.
Dive into the transformative evolution of South Asian queer literature through twelve landmark works. From the classic Funny Boy to the contemporary Walk Like a Girl, these narratives center diverse experiences of identity, migration, and belonging. This essential list celebrates the defiant, joyful voices redefining the subcontinental literary landscape. Read more here.
With Pride Month upon us, we’ve put together a curated list of events and celebrations across the country that celebrate the many facets of Pride. From talks exploring morality, queer rights and caste politics to matchmaking events designed to help people connect with others in the community, this month’s lineup highlights the multitude of experiences and conversations that make up Pride. Find out more here.
Homegrown and Casa Bacardi are coming together on June 14 for the perfect beachy summer party in the middle of Bengaluru. Held at the Go Rally Pickleball, the event features performances by Lady Shaka, Kampai, ANSWER, Reflected Ray, Farhaan Rehman, KLY, and Bombie, with food pop-ups by Beyond Burg, Lick Ice Cream, and Mezcalita. With fashion pop-ups, a photo studio and a dance performance by the Fyah Squad, the afternoon is set to be the perfect afternoon for a summer day. Get your tickets here.
If you enjoyed this, here's more from Homegrown:
From Diljit To Ecca Vandal: South Asian Artists Are Making Their Mark On Late-Night TV
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5 Homegrown Labels That Are Turning Socks Into Statement Pieces