Even though I write this from the safety of my bed, thousands of miles away from the assault capital where the lathis of the Delhi police reign supreme, the terrors of a burgeoning fascist infestation has got to me. Which is funny given how I'd laugh at my mom in my teen years whenever she brought up news on accidents and natural distaters right before my school trips to persuade me to stay. I'd call her naive for letting events from another place put this fear in her. Now as I stare at my own black rectangle in the silence of the night, I can't help but feel a similar dread.
When the day comes, it's business as usual — chores, breakfast, feeding the cats, buying groceries — but always with a distant, lingering concern that something could go wrong, and when it does, I cannot rely on anyone, especially not the cops. The first question I'm asked when I tell people I live alone is, "Aren't you afraid?" And I wasn't for a long time whether I was at home or travelling or living in the city by myself with no roommates during college.
But now something has changed. I feel the urge to get out of this country, growing from a dream into a plan. I've felt it before in my romantic relationships — usually during a negotiating period where I'm still going through the pros and cons — in hindsight, it was always an excuse to delay the inevitable. This time, I hope to act faster and admit to myself and my family that this isn't working out; it's neither you nor me. It's THEM.
Here's what we have for you this week:
Filmmaker Satvik Soni and journalist-author Meghnad are exploring the world of independent politics in India, documenting candidates who contest elections without the backing of major political parties. Their work looks at the people, motivations and local concerns driving these campaigns, offering a closer look at how grassroots politics operates across the country. Through their documentary work and reporting, they examine the challenges independent candidates face and what their campaigns reveal about India's political landscape.
Read more about it here.
Pune's underground bass scene has a new gathering point in BassFace, a collective bringing jungle, dubstep and drum and bass to local audiences. Its events also explore genres like neurofunk and breakcore, with a tapri-inspired setup that gives the nights a Puneri character. A no-phone policy keeps the focus on the music and the dancefloor, as BassFace builds a space for people interested in sounds that rarely get much room in mainstream club culture through its series Bass Tapri.
Find out more here.
Richa Baisa is bringing a playful, experimental edge to South Asian jewellery, with pieces that include grillz, serpent-shaped waist chains, chokers and body jewellery. Founded by Richa Chandak, the label pushes jewellery beyond conventional occasions and styling, making room for pieces that feel expressive, unconventional and a little unapologetic. Richa's work also opens up new possibilities for how traditional craftsmanship can show up in contemporary fashion.
Shop here.
House of Akina is teaming up with chef Bilkis of Golpah Table for a special Durga Puja menu running from October 15–21, bringing Kolkata's Tangra-style Chinese food to Mumbai. The menu features chicken and mushroom baos, egg foo young, shumai, Tangra special chilli chicken, golden fried prawns and more, alongside mains like Hakka douchi salmon and braised lamb in brown sauce. The collaboration explores the culinary history of Tangra, where generations of Chinese families shaped a distinctive Kolkata style of Chinese cooking by combining Chinese traditions with Bengali ingredients and flavours.
Make a reservation here.
BENO in Benaulim, South Goa, is hosting a Southeast Asian-inspired brunch with MAMAZAKI by Farha Naaz on October 17, from noon onwards. The menu features pandan kaya toast with jammy eggs, crispy rice with cured tuna, flaky flatbread and fiery curries, drawing on the char, spice and freshness of Southeast Asian food culture. The takeover brings a range of dishes that go beyond the usual brunch spread, with bold flavours and ingredients taking centre stage. It's an excuse to settle in for a long afternoon with friends and explore a menu inspired by the region's varied food traditions.
Find out more here.
Homegrown's Diwali gifting guide brings together Indian brands and products for the festive season, covering a range of options for different tastes and budgets. From home and lifestyle finds to personal care and other thoughtful presents, the guide is designed to make festive shopping easier while spotlighting homegrown labels. Whether you're shopping for friends and family or looking for something for yourself, it offers a starting point for discovering brands beyond the usual gifting circuit.
Find it here.
The MAX URB_N UN-MUTE Rap Tour is heading to Delhi on October 17 at Vegas Mall, Dwarka, bringing together live performances by Reble, Vichaar, Karun x Nanku, Siyaahi and more. Organised by Max Fashion in collaboration with Homegrown, the nationwide hip-hop festival and rap talent hunt also features a cypher hosted by Spit Dope, live graffiti by Horus One and a customisation zone by The Art Curry. Visitors can also check out a Max clothing drop, a GoodFlippin' Burgers food pop-up and urban sports activities by Backyard Skatepark.
Book your tickets here.
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