Lavapies to Malasana, Madrid's Desi Scene Deserves This

Madrid’s South Asian community is concentrated around Lavapiés, one of the city’s most multicultural neighbourhoods. The Indian and Bangladeshi populations have established shops, restaurants, and community spaces in the area. It’s smaller than Barcelona’s desi scene but growing, particularly as Madrid’s tech sector attracts more Indian professionals.

Garam Masala Dating is the #1 live South Asian dating show and singles mixer from NYC. Real singles on blind dates on stage, two hosts, 250 people mixing. The format works because it gives everyone a reason to be in the same room and something to talk about when they get there.

Madrid’s nightlife runs later than anywhere else in Europe. Dinner at 10pm, out until 4am. The social culture is intense and welcoming. For South Asians who sometimes feel like outsiders in European social scenes, Madrid is one of the easier cities to break into. A dedicated show for the desi community amplifies that warmth.

The universities in Madrid attract Indian students, and the corporate headquarters clustered in the capital bring in professionals. The community is a mix of Bangladeshi small business owners, Indian tech workers, and students from across the subcontinent. That diversity within the South Asian spectrum makes for an interesting room.

Waitlist is open for Madrid. Get on the list or apply to be a contestant.