“Happy New Year Besharam Bitches...!” Those are the sweet words I remember from the sexy host, a.k.a. Malika,at the finale event held at The Fly on January 7, 2011.
Let me just say, I’ve never met any man who can pass off being a women and do it with such grace and style, even with 5 inch stillettos on.
Forget about keeping up with the Kardashians, I need to keep up with you!
Besharam has served five years at the Fly, a sin-city joint for those to let loose, dance, tease and truly be ‘shameless’, which is the literal translation of the word 'besharam'.
A new year brings in new resolutions some say, but I wonder if people’s inhibitions to remain shameless will decrease or increase in its new home, the Courthouse? It is indeed a rather upscale event space, however, I’m a firm believer in change so this could be a good thing. And frankly, I’m feeling the need for better bathroom stalls.
I caught up with DJ Amita, the diva behind the brand, who spins variations of bollywood, bhangra, chutney, top 40, reggae and beyond to party-goers.
Q. Are you concerned about the new move?
A. Not really, I’m quite excited. I think this move will give us an opportunity to reinvent Besharam by incorporating some new things like emerging talent, not only on stage but off stage, like decorators, new product companies, catering, etc.
Q. So what type of ideas do you have in mind?
A. Myself and my co-producer, Zavaré, want to create theme-driven events to reflect what’s happening within our community, things that are relevant. From wedding shows to charities to the IIFA’s. We want to cross-brand the event and create a forum to introduce new things.
Q. Sounds like you want to create experiential events with partnerships? Win-win for both?
A. Exactly.
Q. Will you change up the music? Any concerns of losing your audience, since Courthouse is more upscale?
A. No, the music will remain the same, only better. I’ve been undertaking some private lessons with some of TO’s top DJs and I love learning new techniques. We have a strong following from all backgrounds and cross-genders - I believe that's what makes us unique. We don’t segregate from anybody who simply want to dance, without the drama.
Q: That’s true. I noticed you have an eclectic mix of attendees and what I like is that it’s not just South Asians. There are many people from all backgrounds, ages and professions – Tamils, Malaysians, Punjabis, gays, lesbians, Caucasians and even the aunties and uncles.
I admire your ability to keep striving, upgrading skills at any age, any level. Hone your craft. It’s really important to feed one’s soul. Way to go!
So what can we look forward to your kick-off event on February 4?
A: Well… that will remain a bit of a secret. We want to ‘wow’ loyal and new Besharam fans but the theme will fall in line with ‘Sutra’.
Good timing since February is the month of celebrating love. Heck, we should be celebrating love every day with those that matter. But the upcoming event does sound rather seductive. Hmm…what do I wear?
So readers, this is just a snippet of what to expect from the new Besharam at The Courthouse. Don’t fear - there won’t be any price increases but there will still be strict policies in place. For more information visit www.besharam.ca.
Lina's TOP FIVE
As David Letterman has his Top Ten, Lina has her Top Five for those who plan on attending Besharam's February event.
1. Get on the guest list to avoid line ups. Try to arrive before 10:30pm to guarantee access.
2. Dress sexy, not scantily. Just because its Besharam doesn’t mean one arrives with not much on. Do leave something to the imagination. We can empower ourselves with some great wares! Let’s take lessons from Malika.
3. Come armed…under the arm. I encourage everyone to spritz on some D-O. Though, I love the Besharam experience, it becomes rather challenging when the bhangra kicks in, all arms are up and well…figure it out readers! I often carry a perfume sampler and when it’s unbearable, a little squirt does the trick!
4. To the drag community – continue with stillettos and bling! It may raise some eyebrows to the straight guys but trust me, they are envious! US women love the skin you’re in, so bring it on!
5. For straight guys (some not all), remember to respect one’s space and those around you. So axe the roaming hands and just dance! One can show off their talents by a cool dance move, like Shah Rukh Khan!
Signing off folks, till next time!
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