JOIN USIt was carnival time at Opus in the Creek, which recently hosted a ‘Goa Carnival’ at the venue. Over 250 people attended the event and turned the Whitefield venue into a mini Goa of sorts, complete with the right ambience, music, food and drinks.
To bring in the carnival spirit, there was live music by Carlton Braganza, the owner of Opus and the city-based musician Karan Joseph. The music started off with retro classics by ‘The Beatles’, Elvis Presley, BB King, Bruce Springsteen, Eddy Grant, Bob Marley and other popular names. Following this, the energetic duo did a long Baila set with all the Goan favourites like Maria Pita Che, Suragani and the like. People were seen shaking a leg and jiving to the familiar retro tunes that are rarely played at night spots these days.
“Opus and Creek have always had a Goa connection – from the specials on the menu and certain drinks to the thatched roof and laid-back vibe. So, it totally made sense to celebrate and amplify festivals like Christmas and Easter and of course, the Carnival,” informed Carlton.
“Karan and I started Opus ten years ago with Saturday night sessions that always ended in Goan Bailas. So who better to get back but him? It’s always fun sharing a stage with him because his vibe is totally infectious. It was an incredible night for all!” he added.
To add to the festivities, food lovers had a Goan buffet laid out for dinner. The indulgent authentic Goan dishes, coupled with a number of colourful and tasty cocktails, left everyone satisfied.
For those who attended, it was a night worth remembering. “It had an awesome vibe and I loved the retro and Baila songs the most. Carlton and Karan together were a riot on stage! Of all the food that was available, the vindaloo was excellent and my personal favourite,” said Abhishek Mathur, who attended the carnival. Arati Srivastava, another audience member, added, “I haven’t danced so much in ages! The impromptu song by the group that was celebrating a birthday party at the venue was very sweet. It was the perfect way to spend a Saturday night in Whitefield.”