It’s cheap, private, comfortable and convenient. Having a ‘house party’ is the new trend among the students of Delhi University (DU). From birthday bashes to late night revelries, youngsters are now turning to the confines of a home — self-owned or rented — rather than splurging on clubs and lounges, which are getting more exorbitant by the day.
“House parties are fun. They are so exclusive. The music, drinks and food can be of your own choice. Moreover, there are no time restrictions,” says a student of Hansraj College, who requested anonymity. ‘House parties’, as they are now popularly called, are easy to organise and manage, and can be held in the day, or at night, and can even involve sleepovers.
Ashit Arora, a student from Netaji Subhash Institute of Technology, who attends such parties at least once a month, says, “I like these dos, as going to a club is too expensive. With a maximum budget of R500 per person, these parties are cool and affordable.”
Typically, a ‘house party’ is marked by dancing, eating, drinking and playing games like truth and dare, dumb charade and antakshari. “I party with my gang of girls and we can go as crazy as we want,” says Arshi Arora of Institute of Information Technology & Management. When asked about parental objections, she adds, “My folks give me the permission easily, as long as it is at the house of a girl friend.”
Getting around landlords is also not much of a problem. A student of Vardhman Mahavir Medical College recalls what happened with him the last time he threw a party, “My landlord came in and started shouting. He even threatened to call the police. I assured him that this would not happen again, and once he was gone, the party was back on, though with less noise.”
{{/usCountry}}Getting around landlords is also not much of a problem. A student of Vardhman Mahavir Medical College recalls what happened with him the last time he threw a party, “My landlord came in and started shouting. He even threatened to call the police. I assured him that this would not happen again, and once he was gone, the party was back on, though with less noise.”
{{/usCountry}}But some, like IP University student Rahul Mehra (name changed), suggest that telling your parents before your neighbours tell them, is a good idea. Or, “If they don't know, make sure that they never come to know.”
As fun as this sounds, the morning after poses a big problem, with all that cleaning up to do. So if you’re playing host, be prepared for spilled drinks, tissues strewn around, and a big mess. “Obviously, friends should help,” says Priya Mehra of Lady Shri Ram College.