Amidst the melodious tunes of ‘Ala Pol Vela Pol’ from the classic 1993 film Yajaman, patrons step into the buzzing atmosphere of Sin & Tonic located in T Nagar. Here, an aura of Rajinikanth’s iconic style from Baasha is undeniable, as servers, clad in khaki and checked shirts complete with sunglasses and scarves, welcome guests to the thematic Rajinimania Quiz Night.
The establishment fills with eager participants as the sound system plays an array of Rajinikanth’s famous movie songs, setting the atmosphere for an evening of competition and nostalgia. A special Thalaivar cocktail and appetizer menu has been carefully crafted to complement the trivia-filled night ahead.
The quizmaster for the evening, Abhishek Bharathkumar, is gearing up for the event’s commencement. Chennai’s thriving pub quizzes have become a hallmark for hosting vibrant and competitive soirees. Individuals from all walks of life gather in these public houses to not only test their knowledge but to partake in a community bonded over trivia, all vying for prizes that sweeten the deal.
A remarkable turnout of 220 attendees registered for the Rajinikanth Quiz with numbers peaking even higher for the AR Rahman edition. Abhishek, who transitioned from hosting online quizzes on Instagram during the height of the pandemic to taking the helm at Black Orchid bi-weekly, has observed a steadfast contingent of quiz enthusiasts that frequent these gatherings. Even celebrities, including cricketer R Ashwin, have been spotted at these themed trivia nights.
According to actor Lakshmipriyaa Chandramouli, who has actively participated in a variety of quizzes from Rajinikanth and Kamal Haasan to AR Rahman and Friends-themed nights, these events captivate attendees with their unique mix of entertainment and nostalgia.
Each quiz night often encompasses five to six rounds and concludes within an hour and a half. Quizmaster Arjun Mohan, who is known for his events at venues like Watson’s, Velveteen Rabbit, and Purple Chameleon, mentions a noteworthy increase in the younger demographic showing interest post-pandemic. He fondly recalls how his own romantic journey began at a pub quiz, where he met his wife.
There is, however, more than trivia at play at these gatherings. A sense of camaraderie prevails as regular teams reconvene and new friendships form, a sentiment echoed by stand-up comedian and marketer Guru Nicketan, who revels in the euphoria of correctly answering a challenging question.
Each quiz host tailors their event to the unique ambience of the venue, ensuring a refreshing experience every time. Arjun, who celebrates six years of running the Watson’s pub quiz, adds an interactive dimension to his sessions, with participants sometimes being rewarded with a shot or two as part of the lighthearted interaction.
Mridula Vinod of Strikr Integrated, the creative agency working with Sin & Tonic, emphasizes the importance of selecting compelling themes that resonate with the audiences. The thorough execution, extending from treats to venue décor, distinguishes these quizzes from others in the metropolis.
An increased presence of women at these events points to a shift in demographics, signifying a much more balanced gender participation in Chennai’s quizzing community. Attendees, including writer-actor Sukanya Umesh, attest to the welcoming environment that charms both regulars and newcomers.
The quizzing community has expanded its horizons since the early days of the Madras Pub Quiz at Hotel Savera’s Bay 146, where a vodka cocktail pitcher served in a hollowed watermelon was the grand prize. This earlier iteration of the pub quiz introduced many to the concept, paving the way for its current widespread appeal.
Quizzing in Chennai’s pubs today offers a plethora of incentives ranging from gift vouchers and sponsored travel coupons, to bottles of premium liquor. The evenings are not solely about the material winnings but also enjoying the experience that encompasses trivia, camaraderie, and a touch of showmanship. In essence, it’s an inclusive activity where both seasoned quizzers and first-timers can dive into the fervor that has become a fixture in many of the city’s pubs. As quizmaster Abhishek aptly concludes, these relaxed and inviting pub quizzes provide a welcoming gateway into the world of quizzing.
