Wednesday, April 17, 2013

CJ REPORT: 'LIVE IPL-6 IN A COSY AMBIENCE'

By CJ Uma Bharti in Bangalore

The lounges for the IPL matches at Bangalore's Chinnaswamy Stadium have undergone a makeover of sorts since last year. These have been renovated and well-lit to resemble a party scene. Red seems to be the chosen colour, for every lounge has a variation of red.    

Most of these lounges have been booked in bulk by the corporates, companies and who’s who of the City. In addition to five- star facilities, the spectators in these lounges can help themselves to the choicest of dishes and drinks.

Metrolife spoke to those who have designed these lounges, to know what they have to offer, and to the people in general to get a feel of their experiences.


Each lounge has a distinct look. In the ‘Black Dog Pavilion Upper’ lounge, guests have access to the premier VIP box seats, “Guests can also access the premium open bars, gourmet cuisine, sip on cocktails while enjoying the live action on field. They  can benefit from star player appearances and photo opportunities, which are exclusive to their suite,” says an official with the IPL management wing. 

The ‘P2 lounge’ comprises the owner’s box and their guests. It has a limited number of seats. 

“By virtue of its location, the lounge offers one of the best views. There’s a premier open bar, serving a variety of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, throughout the match, along with a five-star buffet, comprising the best of cuisines,” adds the official. The ‘Black Dog Corporate Lounge (J)’ has an envious variety of food and a premium beer bar. The five-star buffet and the live TV feed are added attractions. “The box is exclusively for corporates and sponsors of the IPL. 

Efforts have been made to completely change the looks of this lounge. And we have registered full bookings for all the matches,” he adds. 

‘Royal Challenge Executive Lounge (E)’ provides an excellent view of the West, the square leg as well as the electronic display screen. The ‘Royal Challenge Fan Terrace (N)’ is on the northern side, opposite the P2 Lounge, and offers a straight view of the pitch. “The view of the pitch and the services offered at each of the lounges are different. And it provides a wholesome view of the pitch,” explains the official.

‘Royal Challenge Pavilion Annexure Lower’ is a private space and quite similar to that of the ‘P2 lounge’ and offers a panoramic view of the of the mid-wicket area and the electronic display screen. 

The people who have been visiting the lounges say it’s worth the money. Swati, who usually goes to the P2 Lounge every year, says, “The interiors have been completely redone from the last time I came here. It’s classy and has a club feel about it. They have played around with red.” 

Vineet, an IT professional, feels the lounges have a charm of their own, “I think the decor blends with the IPL frenzy. The food and unlimited beverage are added attractions. It’s worth paying for the ambience,” he says. Sujatha from Ranchi, who is on a visit here, had watched an IPL match. “I’ve never seen interiors like this except in restaurants and pubs. This is the real IPL experience, complete with stars, food and the best of beverages,” she sums up.

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