Mumbai (Bombay)
India's only surviving opera house reopened to suitably dramatic fanfare with a 2016 performance by Mumbai-born British soprano Patricia Rozario, after a…
Must-see entertainment in South India
Pune
It's a magical atmosphere anytime, but live jazz Thursday nights at alfresco Shisha are a Pune institution. Snuggle up on Iranian-style lounges downstairs…
Mumbai (Bombay)
The stunning art deco Liberty was once the queen of Hindi film – think red-carpet openings with Dev Anand. It fell on hard times in recent years, but is…
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
This popular warehouse-style venue has bands (starting around 9pm), DJs and a rooftop terrace. The cover charge is anything from zero to ₹300. There's a…
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
A mecca for cricket-lovers, hosting many matches per year. Check online for the schedule of tests, one-dayers and Twenty20s.
Kochi (Cochin)
In an intimate, wood-lined theatre, this recommended long-running arts centre provides a useful introduction to Kathakali. It also hosts performances of…
National Centre for the Performing Arts
Mumbai (Bombay)
This vast cultural centre is the hub of Mumbai’s highbrow music, theatre and dance scene. In any given week, it might host experimental plays, poetry…
Mumbai (Bombay)
The Royal Opera House's signature entertainment venue (besides the Opera House itself, that is), the Quarter counts unique spaces like an airy, glass…
Mumbai (Bombay)
A Juhu institution that’s a great place to see both Hindi- and English-language theatre or an art-house film, with the Prithvi Cafe for drinks. Its…
Panaji
Deltin JAQK has three floors with 50 tables. Admission includes gaming chips to the value of ₹2000, or ₹4000 with the premium ticket. There’s a lavish…
Panaji
On the west side of the city, in Campal, is Goa’s premier cultural centre, which features a program of dance, theatre, music and art exhibitions…
Periyar Tiger Reserve
Kathakali shows at this cultural centre are highly entertaining. Make-up and costume starts 30 minutes before each show. Arrive early for a good seat; use…
Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali Centre
Periyar Tiger Reserve
Hour-long demonstrations of the exciting Keralan martial art of kalarippayat, as well as Kathakali, are staged here every evening. Timings may change…
Mumbai (Bombay)
A popular comedy club that hosts around 50 shows per month, with twice-nightly programs on weekends (most comedians use English). It’s 900m west of Lower…
Mumbai (Bombay)
Test matches and one-day internationals are played a few times a year here in season (October to April). Contact the Cricket Association for ticket…
Panaji
Goa’s biggest and best luxury floating casino, Deltin Royal has 123 tables, the Vegas Restaurant, a Whisky Bar and a creche. Entry includes gaming chips…
Munnar
Entertaining (though aimed at tourists) daily performances of Kathakali and kalarippayat, 7km southwest of Munnar. Same-day tickets are usually available…
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
Always buzzing, this huge venue hosts bands, DJs, acoustic musicians and stand-up comedy. On the upper floor there's a large terrace for dining and…
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
All kinds of interesting theatre (in a variety of languages and spanning various genres) and dance are staged at this cultural centre. Hosts an annual…
Mumbai (Bombay)
Box office for Mumbai's National Centre for the Performing Arts. You can also book online at Book My Show (https://in.bookmyshow.com).
Mumbai (Bombay)
A faded art deco masterpiece – Mumbai's oldest – that’s good for Hollywood and Indian blockbusters.
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
Popular pub and performance venue that features some of India’s best blues and jazz acts, alternative and indie bands, comedy, and even experimental…
Panaji
This comfortable, plush multiplex cinema shows Hollywood and Bollywood blockbusters. Book online to choose your seats in advance.
Chennai (Madras)
Chennai’s most popular venue for Carnatic music and bharatanatyam. Check the website for upcoming events (some free).
Bengaluru (Bangalore)
Horse racing is big in Bengaluru and can make for a fun day out. Races are generally held on Friday and Saturday afternoons.
Mumbai (Bombay)
This grande dame of Bombay talkies, formerly known as Metro Big, has been renovated into a multiplex cinema.
Kochi (Cochin)
To see real professionals practising kalarippayat, seek out this renowned 65-year-old training school 6.5km southeast of central Ernakulam. There are…
Kochi (Cochin)
Primarily aimed at tourists, this 'cultural village' seeks to put the full gamut of Keralan music and arts under one roof, with a small cultural museum …
Ooty (Udhagamandalam)
Ooty’s racecourse dominates the valley between Charring Cross and the lake. Racing season runs from mid-April to mid-June, and on the two or three race…
Panaji
These two casino boats are loosely modelled on Mississippi-style paddle boats. Pride I has 40 gaming tables, kids’ play room and an outdoor party deck…
Telangana & Andhra Pradesh
This show at the Chandragiri Fort complex lasts approximately 45 minutes. It was suspended at the time of research but there are plans to run it again…
Kochi (Cochin)
One of the oldest Kathakali theatres in Kerala, this snug venue has small-scale shows with an emphasis on the religious and philosophical roots of…
Mumbai (Bombay)
A modern, 55,000-capacity stadium that hosts the ISL’s Mumbai City FC (football/soccer team), plus occasional IPL cricket matches. It’s 21km east of…
El Diablo - Asian Steakhouse & Movie Bar
Palolem
Recent release and classic movies are shown at this restaurant-bar on a midsized screen. Settle in for free as long as you're having a drink or meal.
Mumbai (Bombay)
Home to Air India FC and ONGC FC, this ground hosts local football (soccer) matches between September and April. Many local matches are free.
Chennai (Madras)
This cultural and educational Mylapore-based institute is a major classical-music and dance venue. Check the website for upcoming shows.
