The trance virus that was initiated by hippie tourists during the early 1970’s did not take long to infect the Indian subcontinent. International acts at nature parties became a common form of musical fete, which resulted in exultant sensations across the country.

The scenario ameliorated until 2006 – the year that witnessed the colossal failure of the first Indian Psychedelic Trance festival (Moondust), and the subsequent year 150 ravers were imprisoned on the auspicious “festival of colors” party in Pune. However, there exists a flip side to this particularly psychedelic coin, with the India section on the renowned Isratrance forum resurrected, and a large number of artists becoming conspicuously visible in the international market.

Analogous to the rising economy of the nation is its entertainment industry – what with international bistros such as Ministry Of Sound and Hard Rock Café in cosmopolitan cities. Trance in particular has not been sensationalized and organizing outdoor nature parties is next to impossible. The capital city of New Delhi usually gets a strong dose of club parties featuring international acts during November – February while Mumbai, Chennai and Pune are relatively dead.

Enter Goa – the sanctum sanctorum for ravers worldwide. Most importantly, Goa continues to maintain its lay as a state of mind more than anything else. While major party season kicks off mid December and views its terminus around the end of February, small parties are not uncommon; a good trancer can always find his way around! Goa might not be able to promise it’s visitors all that it did during the Golden era, but it will definitely make your trip memorable!

If you are looking for a calm holiday in a non-restrictive environment, Manali is the ideal holiday spot. Party season in Manali is from April–August. The village of Kasaul is another similar location. The festival at Pushkar (a popular holiday destination in Rajasthan) occurs every year during the concluding month of the year.

In Kerala, you will find the most picturesque back waters and can pamper yourself to a traditional Ayurvedic oil massage; and the best news is that psy-parties are on the rise. Gokarna in Karnataka is also worth of checking. A trip to India is almost always going to be spontaneous and it’s best to adjudge the scenario once you arrive!

As far as record labels are concerned, young blood has taken over. One of the main record labels continues to be Shivlink Records. Owned by DJ Nick, Shivlink has played host to a number of international acts and released four compilations since its birth. Nick is also responsible for the latest Indian up rise Samsara Recordings.

While Beyond Logic Records and Third Eye seem to be hibernating, Tantrumm Records and Temple Twister Records have been proactive as well as Goa based Disco Valley Records. Deep Electric India compilation showcases the fast growing progressive dance music scene in India.

Ma Faiza (Masti Music) is an editor at Rave Magazine and is well recognized for her ample contribution to the scene.

Text

Divyan Salotra  
divyan@shivlinkrecords.com
Promotions & marketing manager Shivlink Records, author of India Section on Chaishop, freelance journalist.
”Tune in, Turn on & Trance Out!”

Links

http://forum.isratrance.com/forum-india/
www.mastimusic.com
www.sam-sara.com
www.shivlinkrecords.com

Trance Acts

Kohra (Shivlink Records), Kerosene Club (Temple Twister), White Wizard (Samsara), Silent Horror (Devils Mind), Ma Faiza (Masti Music), Dj Nick (Shivlink), Dj Varun (Materia)

Contacts:
info@shivlinkrecords.com