In 2006, when I was working with Rediff.com’s feature section, I read a piece on Delhi’s brand new nightclub Elevate. My pal G mentioned that the hottest, sleekest guys and gals, visit the club, and that on Saturday nights, entering the club is a challenge.
Non!
Coincidentally, Elevate is located in Noida, just 10 km from my house. So, we decided to drop in. The cover charge was Rs 1,500 for a couple. I was frisked by some woman who was rather overzealous in her search. We entered only to discover that the place was empty.
There was a private party on the top floor, though one would never have guessed it from the lack of energy in the place. We paid Rs 1,000 for a bitter caprioska, and a Redbull and Vodka, with no vodka in it. By this time all the seats were taken, and so, we sat at the edge of the dance floor.
A very grumpy looking bouncer/ usher told us in a gruff manner that sitting at the edge of the dance floor was not allowed. So, we moved to a very uncomfy looking rexin couch. I folded my legs, and suddenly Mr gruff informed us: no feet on the couch, unless we kicked our shoes, off! Exasperated, I wondered is this a club or detention?
We continued lounging for the next one hour, as people walked in, and some terrible music played. My pal Al’s prediction was that when the Bollywood music kicked off, everyone would be bumping and grinding. And it turns out they did!
We picked up two more Redbulls, and beat a hasty exit. This place was a rip-off. And overrated piece of work. The waiters and bouncers and ushers, had zero hospitality skills. And the venue emanated a very cold, uncool vibe.
Next, we proceeded to Mamoushee, a rest0bar on the next floor. Micheal Jackson’s songs were played in the background, the drinks were nominally priced, the food was good and the service was warm, friendly and gracious. Mamoushee was like Vegas compared to Elevate.
Elevate was a buzz kill.
Update:
We cooked up more appropriate new names for the club.
Elefake.
Hellevate.
Tags: bollywood music, Delhi, Elevate, mamoushee, Nightclub, Noida, red bull, rediff.com, restaurant
written with alot of passion