Where do stags party?

The ‘no stag entry’ policy of Delhi’s night clubs has left single men in the city high and dry. HT City brings you both sides of the debate.

It’s an unfair world… for some at least. With the year end party season on in full swing, single men in the city are not welcome at the happening nightclubs. The same is not true for single girls, however, who are more than welcome, and often treated to complimentary drinks.

After getting calls from hassled stags (men unaccompanied by women in parties), HT City sent out a male and a female reporter separately to some nightclubs in the city, just to see the stark difference in the way they were treated. (read their account in the box).

Deepali Narula, CEO of F Bar & Lounge, says, “We don’t encourage stags. We might make an exception for couples with one or two stags. We want to maintain the male and female ratio. If there are more men, it becomes uncomfortable for women.”

Rummy Sharma, Director, Pure By Kuki, says, “Stag entry is not allowed unless the person is a regular or comes with the owner’s recommendation. Single guys or a group of men are more prone to creating trouble.”

“Not every guy is a troublemaker,” argues Mohsin Khan, 23, who was recently denied entry by nightclubs. “I had a male friend, who was visiting from Bangalore. It was embarrassing to be hopping clubs requesting for entry.”

“No way. Stags just cannot be allowed. We only make exceptions for expats and media on special nights,” argues Kashif Farooq, owner of The Urban Pind, which has come under flak for allowing foreigner stags but not Indians. Tarina Shah, spokesperson Elevate, adds, “Those who argue should realise we can’t take the risk, knowing how Delhi men behave, when drunk.” “It sucks,” says media consultant Madhok Singh. “How can they say girls don’t misbehave when drunk? That’s such stereotypical thinking.”

The debate goes on. But we did manage to find a few hot spots — Lizard Lounge (South Ex), Staying Alive, Ad Maker (Gurgaon), and Amigos and Velocity Bar (GK) — that welcome stags.

Take 1: Guy

“Hey what’s the cover charge tonight?” I ask.
“Rs 2,000,” says the guy over the counter, who has seasoned eyes to see that I don’t have an armcandy.
“Oh, and do you….”
I’m interrupted. “Stags not allowed, only couples,”
“Isn’t there any way? How much for single entry?” I press.
“No, only girls,” he replies, busy stamping wrists.
“And how much are they charged?” my male companion asks, still nursing a hope that the guard at the entrance may relent.
“Unke liye free hai,” he replies.
I give him a nasty look and walk out.

— Debjeet Kundu

Take 2: Girl

“Hiii [with 3/second fluttering of eyelids],”
“Hey,” the guy flashes his pearlies.
“What’s the entry charge?” I ask.
“Rs 3,000 per couple,” he replies.
“But it’s just me. Then how much?” I ask.
“Let me check,” he says and vanishes in a room behind the counter.
A minute later, he comes back and asks for an ID proof. “Just for profiling, we need to make sure you are not underage,” he says.
I show him my driving license. “You are welcome. Enjoy your evening,” he replies, smilingly stamping my wrist.

— Namya Sinha