The silent club

The Breakup Song in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil is making waves for promoting the trend of a silent disco. In what looks like a happening party with people dancing their hearts out, each individual wears a set of wireless headphones. Although this European concept has been around for quite some time, it hasn’t picked up much in India. The Silent Noise club in Goa was one of the first clubs to bring silent disco to the country, 10 years ago. Ozgur, the DJ and CEO of the club says, “I conducted the usual parties in Goa about 13 years ago in another club, but because of the music ban, we had many restrictions. That’s when I decided to get this concept to India and the reception has been great,” he says.

With silent discos, people can choose to listen to music of up to three DJs, so nobody has to compromise on their choice of music. With so many positives, why is it not popular here? DJ Piyush has an explanation. “These parties will only be beneficial for clubs which have to shut by 11 pm or farmhouse parties where neighbours cannot be disturbed. It is not very economical either. When headphones are used, the quality of sound can’t be compromised. Good quality headsets cost anywhere between Rs 1,000 to Rs 10,000. These days, the curfews at clubs have been relaxed, so we don’t need such parties,” he says.

Ozgur agrees with the fact that it is an expensive affair, and that sometimes during the off season, he does not even break even. Vishwanathan, owner of a club in Hyderabad says, “I did think of hosting such a party once since the neighbours complained of noise, but didn’t go ahead with it. I might consider it again since it is a great way to curb noise pollution. The only concern is the customer’s comfort.”

A party enthusiast and an advocate, S.N. Prasad says, “The idea is wonderful! People who don’t want to dance or listen to loud music can always reduce the volume, and can even hear the other person, for a change. I hope that more such parties are held in Hyderabad.”