Bengaluru’s recent Oota and Aata event, curated by Samyuktha Sunil and hosted at Sabha, brought together residents for an evening of community, food, and games. The event was aimed at “transporting attendees back to memories of childhood afternoons spent with cousins, grandparents, and plenty of laughter”. ‘THE EVENT IS MORE ABOUT BONDING THAN PLAYING’Samyuktha’s idea was rooted in inclusivity. “We wanted to design an experience where everyone could join in. Other events often revolve around music or alcohol, which limits the audience. But with games, snacks, and a homely setting, people of all ages feel welcome. We’ve seen children as young as five and grandparents in their eighties playing side by side — and that’s something rare today.” ‘COMMUNITY GATHERING IS A DIGITAL DETOX’Beyond a sense of nostalgia, the popularity of these gatherings lies in offering people a reason to switch off from the digital world. “Games give us a chance to be fully present, focus, have a conversation and truly connect. Grandparents aren’t just telling stories about their past — they’re actually playing, teaching, and laughing alongside their grandchildren. That joy across generations is unique,” shares Samyuktha.‘BENGALURU HAS ALWAYS BEEN ABOUT COMMUNITY’Samyuktha believes Oota and Aata reflect Bengaluru’s spirit: a fast-paced city yearning for slower, more meaningful connections. “Bengaluru has always been about community, whether through literature, music, or food, and this gathering is just a continuation of that culture in a new form,” she adds.
