For over seven years now Lamakaan has become the mainstay of the art and cultural scene in the city. Staying true to its name (Lamakaan means Boundless in Arabic), it has managed to transform itself from a sleepy old bungalow into a potpourri of dialogue, discussion and debate.
Started in 2010 by friends and culture aficionados Ashhar Farhan, Humera Ahmed, Elahe Hiptoola and Brij Matthew it is a precursor to the host of cultural hubs/co-working spaces we currently have in the city.
Farhan, who always wanted to start a cultural space in the city, converted the house belonging to his late uncle into a throbbing centre for creativity, culture, arts and theatre adding a much needed aesthetic dimension to the city of Charminar, Hi-tech city and Biryani. The inaugural events, seven years back were a qawwali performance by Warsi Brothers and a play, Main Raahi Masoom by Hyderabad-based theatre personality Vinay Verma.
Modelled on the famous Prithvi theatre in Mumbai which still remains a cultural centre, the place also drew inspiration from the popular Vidyaranya school in Hyderabad. With natural rocks as a part of the décor, Lamakaan which is spread over 5000 sq yards has seating both indoors and outdoors. The reasonably priced canteen, free wi-fi and books ensure that it is always buzzing with students, artists and participants in the numerous workshops which the place conducts each day.
HYDERABAD,TELANGANA,29/12/2015: Lamakaan, one of the first and only free cultural and literary space in Banjara Hills..Photo KVS Giri
On an average day, the place witnesses a diverse range of activities – plays, concerts, screenings, talks, photo exhibitions, book launches, workshops of every imaginable kind, music classes and even an organic bazaar. The weekends are jam-packed, with multiple sessions held simultaneously. While space and parking is limited, they have freed little pockets over the years, (like the terrace) ensuring an open and accessible arena for assorted creative pursuits. It is one of those rare places which fits all needs- you can drop in to attend an event, meet like-minded people or simply read a book or strum a guitar.
One of the many charms of the place is undoubtedly its cozy canteen resembling the ubiquitous ones in most colleges. From its Irani café styled chai and osmania biscuit, to khatti dal and specials of the day, it is teeming with people drawn by its reasonable pricing, great taste and a reputation which is well deserved. The canteen is also the setting for many a passionate debate and discussion for people who throng the place.
Why does Lamakaan remain relevant? Is it because it charges a nominal fee for artists to hold their events? Is it because of its constant buzz of energy? Is it because it welcomes every one, no matter their ideology or inclination? Or is it because of its central location? The answer is all of them add to the charm of the place, adding to the fact that it allows those who step in to indulge in an idea or activity that helps them to get away from the everydayness of life.
