About B:ENT HQ
B:ENT. HQ is a small, independent live-music and audio listening venue in Borivali, Mumbai. It opened in late 2019 and quickly became notable as one of the city’s first dedicated audiophile spaces. Instead of a conventional concert hall, it’s billed as a “headphone-friendly” listening club – a place where music lovers gather to listen closely to vinyl records or high-end DJ sets. A ticket listing even described BENT On Record (the venue’s flagship series) as “a community initiative by B:Ent…to support an…‘listening’ culture across India” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Signature features include state-of-the-art sound rigs (sponsored by brands like Sound Redefined and KEI HiFi), low-key lighting and occasionally a small pop-up market selling vinyl, art or crafts. Past events have served craft burgers, artisanal popcorn and craft beers alongside the music, giving it a fair-like but intimate vibe (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue is tiny – attendance is often capped (one event announcement even warned “space is limited” (www.ticketfairy.com )) – which ensures a cozy, community feel. In short, B:ENT HQ matters locally because it embodies the new wave of music culture in Mumbai: immersive vinyl listening nights and indie music shows that connect older and younger fans alike (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ).
Events and Programming
B:ENT HQ’s calendar revolves around themed listening sessions and small performances. Its signature series is called “BENT On Record,” a regular vinyl listening event and record-themed party. Listings show sessions every few weeks in 2019–2020 – for example, **BENT On Record #06** took place in October 2019 and **Listening Sessions #08–#10** were held in December 2019 through February 2020 (www.ticketfairy.com ). One session in November 2019 featured Mumbai DJs Lacuna, Sputnik and Avi, highlighting that even house and electronica artists have embraced the venue’s audiophile ethos (www.ticketfairy.com ). These events typically run in the afternoon or evening on weekends. Past promotions advertise a mix of chill listening and light shows, plus stalls selling vinyl records or art, and local food/drink partners. Since the events are “All Ages” (www.ticketfairy.com ) and focus on active listening, attendees often treat them more like community gatherings than loud pub gigs. (Between track breaks the hosts sometimes run music quizzes or discussions.) Outside high-profile sessions, B:ENT HQ may also host occasional live-acoustic shows, indie band gigs or listening parties for new album releases. Overall, expect a mix of DJ sets, album listening nights, vinyl swap meets and very occasional live acts – all favouring quality sound over dance-party volume (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
For most events at B:ENT HQ, advance registration is required. Tickets (often free or low-cost) are usually released through online event listings. For example, past BENT On Record sessions appeared on ticket platforms with “All Ages – Get Tickets” notices (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue doesn’t have a walk-up box office; instead organisers post links on social media or event sites when tickets go on sale. Because the space is very small, popular shows tend to sell out quickly, so the best strategy is to follow the venue’s social channels (or partners like Sound Redefined) and join any early-bird registrations. Note that “Get Tickets” often means an RSVP or digital ticket rather than a ticket to purchase at the door. If a ticket price is required, it is usually modest (examples have ranged around a few hundred rupees, depending on the act). When in doubt, treat B:ENT HQ events like indie theatre – plan ahead, register, and arrive early. (Past ads emphasise “space is limited” (www.ticketfairy.com ), so late entry may not be possible.)
Seating and Layout
B:ENT HQ is essentially a flat-floor room with a small raised stage or DJ booth at one end. There are no fixed seats – early attendees often grab the limited stools or benches, while most people stand or sit casually on the floor. Since events emphasise listening, some guests even bring cushions. The best “seat” in the house depends on your preference: near the centre might give the most balanced sound, whereas fans of a particular DJ might stand closer to the turntable. Because the sound system is high-end and well-tuned, there really are no “bad” spots. The venue’s speakers put out clear sound all around. (One tip borrowed from vinyl nights in Mumbai: switch off phones and focus on the music (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ).) If you want a wall to lean on or to avoid reverb, stand to the sides or back; if you like to feel the bass, go closer to the front. In summary, B:ENT HQ is general admission – no reserved seating or VIP section – and it rewards arriving early to choose your viewing/listening position.
Getting There and Parking
The venue is located in Borivali West (Mumbai’s northern suburbs). It doesn’t have a landmark address online, so your best bet is to use a map app or confirm with the event organizer. The nearest suburban rail stop is Borivali Station on the Western Line (about 3–4 km away). From Borivali or nearby Kandivali station, you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the venue in 10–15 minutes (traffic permitting). Several BEST buses also serve Borivali-area routes (check routes that stop near Kora or SV Road). Note that Borivali and Kandivali are not metro suburbs yet, so the local train is the primary public transit. If driving, be aware there is little dedicated parking: street parking or small private lots may be available but often fill up for events. It’s usually wiser to park a bit farther away (side streets around Lokhandwala Circle have pay-parking) or use a ride-hail service (Uber/Ola) to drop you right in front. Shares ride-drop zones exist along the main road. In general, plan extra time for travel: suburban trains in Mumbai run from early morning until midnight, so you can return easily after a late show, and taxis/auto-rickshaws operate 24/7 (daytime on Borivali area is busy, rush hour can be slow, so off-peak travel is smoother).
Inside the Venue
When you enter B:ENT HQ, you’ll find a darkened, industrial-chic space. Expect a quick security/bag check (typical for any live venue) but not an overbearing police presence. Staff will scan your ticket or check your registration at the door. Inside, the atmosphere is casual and creative: exposed brick or black-painted walls, simple stage lighting or string lights, and a prominent sound system. The mood is friendly – people often mill around sipping craft drinks and chatting about music before the show starts. The venue usually has at least a small bar counter (especially when SimsBar or other sponsor beers are on tap), and they often allow or serve local snacks. In past events, vendors sold craft burgers (Perfect Burger), flavored popcorn (The Crunch Box), ice tea and even mead (www.ticketfairy.com ). A turned-up focus is on audio gear; equipment from KEI HiFi and Sound Redefined is often on display or even for sale. Restrooms (men’s and women’s) are located in the back or down a short hallway. There is no coat check, so bring only what you need. Inside, WiFi is not generally advertised; attendees rely on 4G. Don’t expect a noisy bar or nightclub vibe – this is fundamentally an acoustic space, so conversing is done quietly and usually between tracks. Merchandise tables from local record shops or artists (like vinyl from The Revolver Club or art prints) pop up at events (www.ticketfairy.com ). Overall, the ambiance is more like a listening lounge than a dance club – it’s about absorbing the sound.
Nearby Amenities
B:ENT HQ sits in a residential/commercial area of Borivali, so you won’t find a packed nightlife strip right outside. However, there are plenty of eateries and services a short drive or walk away. Within a few minutes from the venue you can find casual Indian and international restaurants, cafes and fast-food joints on SV Road or around the Lokhandwala Junction. If you want to grab dinner or drinks before the show, popular spots include local neighbourhood lounges and chain cafes near Borivali station or in Link Road Mall (about 10 minutes’ drive). Some Bollywood-themed pubs and rooftop bars are a 15- to 20-minute drive away in Malad or Goregaon (e.g. The Daily Bar and Kitchen, or high-end bars in the Infiniti Mall area). For late-night travel after the show, taxis and autos are readily available around Borivali station (or call Ola/Uber). If you need accommodations, hotels near Borivali include mid-range business inns; otherwise look to the Goregaon/Andheri area (30–45 min by road) for upscale options like Grand Hyatt or Trident. In summary: it’s not a downtown area, but the suburban locale has everything a visitor typically needs – just plan extra travel time for dining or lodging slightly farther afield.
What Makes This Venue Special
B:ENT. HQ stands out because it treats music like a communal experience rather than background ambience. Architecturally it may seem unremarkable, but culturally it’s unique: this is one of the only places in Mumbai where people turn off their phones and lean in to *listen*. Local press notes that Mumbai’s vinyl nights are bringing all ages together, and B:ENT HQ is at the heart of that movement (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). For example, many attendees at these events are longtime fans of classic rock or jazz sharing the space with younger fans discovering Pink Floyd or Abbey Road on vinyl for the first time (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ) (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). The owner fosters that nostalgic vibe by focusing on iconic albums and deep-curated sets. Plus, B:ENT HQ pulls in creative partners (breweries, bakeries, art groups) so each night feels like a mini-festival. In the city’s live-music scene, it’s cherished by artists and fans alike for its intimacy and high sound quality. The venue’s reputation even attracted national media interest: Times of India reported on Mumbai’s growing “listening culture” which includes gatherings precisely like those at B:ENT HQ (timesofindia.indiatimes.com ). In short, B:ENT HQ is special not for a flashy facade or big acts, but for letting music be “the main event” in a welcoming community setting.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility : B:ENT HQ is on ground level with at least one ramped entrance, making it wheelchair-accessible. Restrooms are gender-separated; accessible stalls may be available (though the space is quite small). If you have specific mobility needs, you can contact the venue in advance. Staff are generally happy to assist guests with disabilities.
What to Bring : Always bring your digital ticket/RSVP confirmation, plus a government ID if you plan to drink alcohol (the bar serves beer and sometimes liquor to those 18+). It’s wise to carry cash or a credit card – some vendors or the small bar may not accept digital wallets. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes; the vibe is casual (T-shirts, jeans, light sweaters are common). If the weather is warm, note that the music can pump up the heat; if it’s cool, bring a light jacket or shawl since the doors may open (especially if fans spill outside). Consider ear protection if you’re sensitive to bass – some DJs can get surprisingly loud. But generally, the sound is rich without being extremely loud (the goal is fidelity).
Common Mistakes : Don’t assume walk-ups are allowed – old event pages stress “register online” beforehand. If you show up at the last minute without a ticket, you might be turned away due to the small capacity (as one listing warned, “space is limited” (www.ticketfairy.com )). Another pitfall is parking: don’t waste time circling immediately outside – it’s better to drop off guests, then find paid parking a block or two away. Also, since many attendees are into the experience, it’s considered rude to chat loudly or scroll your phone during the music. Embrace the listening ethos: stash your phone when the record spins. On that note, check if photography rules are posted – some shows ask no flash photography to keep distractions down.
Age Restrictions : Most B:ENT HQ events are open to all ages (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s a sober environment by day (alcohol is usually limited to a beer stand), so it can even be a family-friendly outing if parents want to share their favorite albums with teens. Late-night events might lean more adult if alcohol is served, but in general there’s no strict over-18 rule (again, “All Ages” is the default). Children under 12 should be accompanied as seating is minimal.
Food & Drink : The venue itself doesn’t have a full kitchen, but local food trucks or pop-ups often operate at events – check the show page. Past events mentioned burgers, popcorn, sandwiches and craft snacks (www.ticketfairy.com ). If nothing is advertised for your show, you can always eat nearby or bring a light snack (inside outside food policies are usually flexible, but large picnic meals might be discouraged). Non-alcoholic drinks (soda, juice, water) are sold at the counter; beer is usually local craft brew (e.g. Simba) and will require age ID.
Connections : Mobile signal (4G) is reliable here, so you can use your phone up until showtime. During the music, people tend to switch them off – it’s part of the experience. There is no public WiFi promoted for guests. Charger outlets are rare in the dark listening area, so charge your devices beforehand.
Arrival Advice : Aim to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before doors open. This lets you get a seat or spot, buy drinks/food, and chat with other fans (people are very friendly). If the show sells out, arriving late could mean waiting for a line outside to re-enter. After the event, the crowd usually mingles to talk about the music – so allow time for that if you enjoy music discussion. Lastly, remember to relax: unlike nightclubs, this is an evening of shared listening. If you follow the community’s lead (phones off, attention forward), you’ll get the most out of the night.
How can I purchase tickets for B:ENT HQ events?
Tickets are sold online, not at a physical box office. For each event, the organizers post a link (often on social media or a ticketing site) where you can register. In practice, B:ENT shows typically require an advance RSVP or purchase via a web platform. Because the space is small, popular events sell out fast, so it’s best to follow the venue’s official channels and sign up as soon as tickets go live.
What is the seating arrangement and capacity at B:ENT HQ?
The venue is very intimate – it likely holds only a few dozen people at most. There is no fixed seating; it’s general admission floor space. A few stools or benches may be available, but most attendees stand or bring cushions. Old event flyers warned “space is limited,” so plan for crowds. In other words, first-come guests can grab front spots, but there’s no VIP section or reserved rows.
What are the transportation options to reach B:ENT HQ?
B:ENT HQ is in Borivali West. The easiest public transit is the Western Line train – the Borivali or Kandivali station is within 3–4 km. From there, local buses or taxis can take you straight to the venue. Taxis and autorickshaws can also come to your door if you call an Uber/Ola or flag one down. There’s no metro nearby. If you’re driving, note that parking is minimal – you may have to park on a side road or pay car park a short walk away. The recommendation is often to carpool or use ride-share for convenience.
Is entry to B:ENT HQ age-restricted?
No – events are generally open to all ages. Listings for past shows explicitly said “All Ages,” meaning even teenagers and families are welcome. (There’s usually no door cover charge or 18+ limit.) Of course, attendees must be 18+ to consume alcohol, but you as a visitor won’t be turned away for being underage. Just be aware that the environment is more like a listening party than a kid’s play area, so use your judgment for young children.
Where can I park when visiting B:ENT HQ?
B:ENT HQ has no dedicated parking lot. If you arrive by car, you will likely find street parking on nearby roads, but it can be scarce during events. The safest bet is to carpool, use a ride-share drop-off, or park farther away in a paid lot. Motorbikes or scooters can usually be parked on the curb. If driving is your only option, allow extra time to hunt for a spot before showtime.
Can I buy food or drinks inside the venue?
Yes, to some extent. There’s often a small beverage counter with water, soft drinks and typically a local craft beer on tap. Full meals aren’t served in the venue, but at many events local food vendors park outside or inside – past sessions featured burger and popcorn stalls (www.ticketfairy.com ). You’re also allowed to bring a snack if needed, but large outside catering is discouraged. In summary: expect basic bar snacks and beverages on-site, or eat at nearby restaurants first.
Are there restrooms and coat check facilities?
Restrooms are available inside (usually just simple male/female toilets near the back). They should be clean and lockable, but they’re modest in size since the venue is small. There is no formal coat check or storage, so you should carry only light bags. For example, a fellow visitor suggested: “Don’t bring large backpacks – there’s nowhere secure to leave them.” Keep your valuables on you at all times.
How early should I arrive before a show?
Plan to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before the advertised start time. Early arrivals can secure a good spot near the stage, grab a drink and soak in the vibe. Since the venue has limited space and doors often open pretty close to showtime, late arrival can mean queuing outside. In fact, one event notice emphasized arriving early to ensure you get in. If a talk or DJ starts exactly on time, you could miss part of the performance by coming late.
Is photography or video recording allowed during events?
Generally, limited photography is okay for personal memories, but flash and tripods are frowned upon as they distract from the listening experience. Most event pages don’t explicitly ban phones, but the community norm (and many artists’ request) is to keep phones stowed during the music. Videos are usually discouraged unless the performers say it’s fine. If it’s important, ask at the door or watch the front door for any posted photo rules on the night of the show.
What are the venue’s policies on bringing bags or personal items?
Bags are typically allowed, but because the venue is tight on space you should bring only essentials. Oversized bags or suitcases will slow you down at security and may not fit under seats. Expect a quick frisk or bag scan at the entrance. Cameras are fine, but large tripods or lighting rigs are not. The general advice is “travel light.” If you need storage, the staff might hold a small bag behind the bar, but don’t count on it.
Are there any dress code rules at B:ENT HQ?
No formal dress code – the atmosphere is relaxed and informal. You’ll see everything from jeans and T-shirts to the occasional artsy jacket. Because you might be standing and moving, comfortable shoes are a good idea. Layers can help too, since sound can heat the room up. The only caution is that clothing should be modest and practical (no swimwear or flip-flops, for instance). Overall, dress as you would for a casual cafe or small club.
What public amenities are near B:ENT HQ?
In the immediate area you’ll find several office buildings and shops. There are convenience stores and small restaurants within a few blocks. The closest ATMs and late-night eateries are around Lokhandwala Circle (about 1–2 km away). If you arrive early, a quick walk can get you to a mall or multiplex near Borivali station (cabs would be 5 minutes) for coffee or dinner. Also, taxi stands and auto hubs are around public transit stops nearby. Basically, the neighbourhood is functional — plan to stock up on any needed supplies (snacks, drinks) before walking over if you have time.
What does "BENT On Record" mean?
“BENT On Record” is the name of the listening session series held at B:ENT. HQ. It’s a pun (like being “bent” on something) highlighting the focus on playing vinyl records (“on record”). In practice, it means a club night where DJs or hosts play music track-by-track on turntables, often with a theme (a particular album or genre). The idea is to treat the experience as a collective “listening party” rather than just dancing. If you see it advertised, expect a night of vinyl music, audio demos, and community audio culture.
Is B:ENT HQ wheelchair accessible?
Yes, B:ENT HQ aims to be accessible. The entry is on street level (no large staircase), so wheelchair access is possible. Inside, the space can accommodate a wheelchair at the back or side. Adults with mobility issues should have a relatively clear path once inside. Restrooms may not be fully wheelchair-equipped (they are standard in a small club), but staff will do their best to assist. If in doubt, you can contact the organizers ahead of your visit to confirm any special needs.
Are pets allowed at B:ENT HQ?
No. B:ENT HQ is an indoor entertainment venue, so pets (other than service animals) are not permitted. Service animals are allowed by law, but please inform the organizers in advance so they can make accommodations. All other animals (even on leash) are not allowed inside.
What time does the last train leave after an evening show?
If you rely on Mumbai suburban trains, the Western Line (Borivali direction) usually has its last local trains around midnight to 12:15 AM. On Maharashatra Expressway stops (like Borivali Station) trains often run until midnight. If your show ends very late, plan a taxi or auto-rickshaw back (apps like Uber and Ola run 24/7 in Mumbai). Alternatively, Kalwa or Dadar trains (north-south) go III zone on schedule. In short, pay attention to the clock – many people swap to taxis if hunger for late night prevails.
