The idea is to focus on the fleeting nature of relationships and how the current generation is 'cool' about waltzing in and out of love
'The times they are a-changin'... so went the timeless lyric crooned by Bob Dylan many moons ago. In a world transitioning with lightening speed, the words are reflective of the new ways we approach relationships as well.
And what better occasion to dwell on this than Valentine's Day — a date marked in bold red for those in love and crossed in blue for the lovelorn.
So while we see the commercial celebration of love starting a week ahead of February 14, complete with roses, chocolates, proposals, and promises made over glasses of wine and candlelit dinners, it seems the mandate to make merry this year has swung in favour of the lonely and the broken-hearted.
Break-up parties are the de rigueur this season of love, even as Rod Stewart and Michael Bolton numbers continue to attract their mushy audience. Don't be surprised if you find the forlorn college mate or the scorned ex raising glasses at one of the restaurants in Delhi to commemorate their singledom.
Taking the lead in this novel concept of anti-Valentine party are places such as Molecular, Junkyard, and Nukkad Cafe. The idea is to focus on the fleeting nature of relationships and how the current generation is 'cool' about waltzing in and out of love.
"We are not anti-love. The speed with which youngsters change their beau and the fickle nature of present-day relationships prompted us to celebrate this never-say-die spirit of the youth. There is no stigma attached in breaking up anymore. Youngsters don't regret not having a partner anymore. And after last year's chartbuster Break-Up song, breaking up has become more fashionable than being together," says restaurateur Umang Tewari.
The idea also dwells on the age-old "so many fish in the sea" concept, giving hope to singles and the broken-hearted, apart from focusing on self-love. According to Molecule owner Sahil Sambhi, who has curated special dishes for the anti-Valentine celebration, life is all about second chances.
"Our message is not to lose heart if you have been dumped. Gather your wits and move on. You must first love yourself and your life, and then focus on the object of your affection," he gives a sage advice. Kanishk Tuteja of the Nukkad Cafe, on the other hand, has a humorous take on being single.
"You don't have to share your food with anyone. Neither do you have to bow down to their eating preferences. Imagine eating an entire bowl of Maggi in peace, because there is no bickering, no one breathing down your neck," he says.
Eat to heart's content
The Graveyard: Cocktail at Junkyard Cafe, Saket, to help you drown all the pain and hassles in life
Edible Coal at Molecular: Burnt from outside, but full of delicious paneer and cheese inside, similar to a heart charred with agony but having love inside
Sukoon: Nukkad Cafe's dedicated menu for singles
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