Chandeliers glow over polished floors, violins mingle with conversations, and flowing gowns sweep across dance spaces as strangers become dance partners. Inspired by the romance and grandeur of period dramas such as Bridgerton, themed ballroom and masquerade events are finding an audience in Hyderabad. What started as an aesthetic trend on social media is increasingly becoming a real-world weekend activity, drawing young professionals, friend groups and even solo attendees looking to step into a different world — if only for an evening.
As immersive experiences continue to gain popularity, Hyderabad’s emerging ballroom culture suggests that for many, a weekend outing is no longer just about where they go, but about the world they get to step into
‘Bridgerton has renewed interest in ballroom elegance’The popularity of period dramas has sparked renewed interest in ballroom culture, creating demand for experiences that recreate the elegance and social rituals seen on screen. “Historically, ballroom gatherings and masquerade-style events were social spaces where people came together to connect, build friendships, meet romantic partners, and enjoy meaningful interactions. We aim to revive that spirit in a modern context,” say Biswarupa Barik and Nusrat Ali Quadri, founders of Ofline Club, Hyderabad who hosted a ballroom event in the city. “With shows like Bridgerton, there has been a renewed interest in ballroom elegance, fashion and charm. We felt Hyderabad was ready for an experience that blends this aesthetic with authentic offline social connections. It’s not about matchmaking, but about creating a space where people can dress up, have fun and meet others organically.”
Pic credits: @oflineclub
‘The experience isn’t just about dressing’Beyond the costumes and decor, the events are designed to help people mingle and interact. “After Bridgerton went viral, it wasn’t just a show anymore, it became an aesthetic people wanted to live,” says Yogitha Rao, founder of The Room Zero Experience. “We built our event on that sentiment, but instead of copying it, we created a version that fused its elegance with Indian cultural elements, including Indian outfits for a masquerade ball.” She adds, “We introduced interactive experiences like a “most admired guest of the evening” contest, salsa sessions, and live instrumental music with a cellist, violinist and ghatam artist. The blend of Western classical and Indian fusion, including Bollywood instrumentals, helped create a unique Indo-Bridgerton world.”
The popularity of shows like Bridgerton, The Buccaneers and Downtown Abbey has sparked renewed interest in ballroom culture, creating demand for experiences that recreate the elegance and social rituals seen on screen
‘It offers a refreshing departure from routine’For Jyotirmayi, a software engineer and Bridgerton fan, preparation began well before the event. “To prepare, I even rewatched Bridgerton Season 2 for outfit inspiration and chose a white floral long dress for the event, seeking inspiration from Edwina Sharma’s character,” she says. “The event felt like a mix of elegance and playfulness, almost like a modern version of a royal high tea gathering. Overall, it made me more confident talking to new people, and left me mentally recharged,” she says.
Attendees embrace Regency-era aesthetics while participating in dance sessions, social mixers and immersive activities inspired by period dramas at these events
Reading Jane Austen and watching films like Pride and Prejudice always made us imagine those grand ballroom scenes. Since we rarely get to experience that in India, this felt like a chance to live it
Harshu Pattabhi, a medical device engineer, and Bhagyashree, a media and entertainment lawyer
