
‘Our events are branded as the happiest in the country'
'We started with edits and Nu Disco,' says Stalvart at Ajji House By Subko, where we decide to meet. 'But both the sound and the community have evolved. Right now, we're focused on house records that are fun, functional, and still say something.'
Released on July 11, Dynamite Cuts Vol. 1 brings together familiar collaborators and emerging voices across four tracks. Stalvart's own contribution, 'Cradle of Life,' is a luminous Afro-Disco homage to African sounds and spirit. 'Africa is the cradle of life. I wanted to make something happy, something fresh. I want people to feel absolutely comfortable and happy on the dance floor.'
The compilation, a spectrum of sound mirroring the diversity DDC has fostered for years, also features Farhan Rehman's 'Strictly Rhythm', Nida's club-shaking debut 'Where Were You?', and SourFunk's 'Dancin', a tribute to feminine energy on the floor.
From Kerala roots to Bengaluru's basslines
Originally from Kerala, Stalvart moved to Bengaluru in 2015 after Kerala's alcohol ban crippled the local club scene. His journey began with a podcast radio show that gradually led him into DJing.
'Once I played my first club show, I knew this is what I want to do.' And yet, for someone so immersed in performance, Stalvart is refreshingly honest about his relationship with visibility. 'Fame was never the goal. I love what I do. I also know what can go wrong when you over-commercialise a subject. I've learned to stop chasing outcomes. I want to create what I believe in.'
That philosophy spills into how he runs the label, too: as a labour of love. 'No one makes money from electronic labels. It's all self-funded. We've lasted this long because of how real it is. ' With over 110 events across 14 cities and festival takeovers at Magnetic Fields, Echoes of Earth, and NH7 Weekender, DDC has become more than just a label — it's a movement. The party vibe is only one part of the picture.
'Our events are branded as the happiest in the country. And that's intentional. A lot of people walk into clubs and wonder if they belong there. We wanted to change that — to create an environment where everyone feels like they've walked into a friend's house,' says Stalvart.
That sense of safety and belonging is DDC's heartbeat, with low ticket prices, inclusive decor, and a crowd that becomes family. 'People come, dance, and leave as friends. That's the power of community-forward club culture.'
Mentoring the future
A defining pillar of DDC is Stalvart's annual mentorship program, now in its sixth year. 'Every March, I open applications and select five students. I teach them DJing, sure, but also how to navigate this industry, from pitching yourself to handling politics. I mentor them for life.'
Nida and SourFunk, both featured on the new release, are products of this program. 'The idea was always to build from the ground up, from parties to artists to a label. This release reflects that vision.'
Stalvart also hints at a new project for next year that will take DDC to its 'next level of growth.' He does not want to say more just yet. What is clear is that the label is moving with clarity, not riding a trend, but shaping a scene. 'I used to dream small. When I started DDC however, I knew this is where I want to be.'
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


New Indian Express
an hour ago
- New Indian Express
Odia opera actor summoned over use of live python
JAJPUR: An Odia opera actor appeared before Forest department officials of the district after being summoned over his use of a python during rehearsal performance on Wednesday. Video of the incident went viral on social media, triggering public backlash over use of wild animals in entertainment, prohibited under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. According to reports, during rehearsal of Tulasi Gananatya's play 'Ei Bodhe Sesha Dekha,' actor Sai Satyajit Panda was seen holding a python on stage as part of his performance. The rehearsal took place near Chandikhole on Tuesday. Following social media outrage, Bayree forest range office summoned Panda. Appearing before the officials on Wednesday, Panda said the snake was a legally purchased exotic species not protected under wildlife schedules and it was bought in compliance with the rules and no harm was caused during the performance. Panda stated, 'It is an African ball python and many people in Bhubaneswar keep these snakes as pets. It is allowed to be kept as a pet under Indian laws. Since I am an actor and a celebrity, the video got more attention online.' Bayree forest range officer Adeitya Kumar Pradhan said no FIR was filed in connection with the incident. 'Use of a live python, even an exotic one without prior permission from wildlife authorities may still violate prevailing environmental and performance-related regulations,' said Pradhan. The matter is under investigation and appropriate action will be taken as per law, he added.


Hindustan Times
11 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Actor questioned over use of live python in opera show in Odisha
Jajpur , An Odia opera party actor Wednesday appeared before the Forest department officials in Jajpur district and explained the controversy surrounding his use of a live python during a rehearsal performance. Actor questioned over use of live python in opera show in Odisha A video clip of the incident went viral on social media, triggering concerns over the illegal use of wild animals in live performances. According to reports, the rehearsal of the Tulasi Gananatya troupe for the Odia play 'Ei Bodhe Sesha Dekha' took place near Chandikhole on Tuesday. In the viral video, the actor Sai Satyajit Panda was seen holding a live snake, identified as an African ball python, on stage as part of a dramatic sequence. The video footage drew sharp criticism online and prompted wildlife advocates to flag the use of wild animals in entertainment, which is prohibited under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Following social media outrage, the Bayree Forest Range office issued a notice summoning the actor. While presenting his side before the forest department, actor Panda said that the snake was a legally purchased exotic species, not protected under the Indian wildlife schedules. He claimed to have bought it in compliance with the rules and insisted no harm was caused during the performance. 'The snake I was holding at rehearsal was not venomous. It is an African bell python, and many people in Bhubaneswar keep these snakes as pets. It is allowed to be kept as a pet under Indian laws. Since I am an actor and a celebrity, the video got more attention online,' Panda said. He also claimed to be a pet lover and denied that the snake was harmed or 'misused'. Bayree Forest Range Officer Adwit Kumar Pradhan confirmed Panda's appearance and stated that no FIR in connection with the incident has been filed yet. He said that under the Wildlife Protection Act, the public display or use of wild or exotic animals without clearance from the authorities can invite legal consequences, regardless of whether the species is native or imported. The matter is under investigation and action will be taken as per law, he added. This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.


Time of India
16 hours ago
- Time of India
Nothing partners director photographer Jordan Hemingway for Phone (3), Headphone (1)
Nothing has unveiled a collaboration with popular photographer and director Jordan Hemingway. He shot the creative portrait-led campaign for Nothing's new over-ear headphones, Headphone (1) and has also developed custom camera presets for Nothing's smartphones. A professional camera preset titled "Stretch," created by Jordan Hemingway , will launch for Nothing smartphone users later this month. This preset will enable users to easily capture images in Hemingway's distinct visual style. Who is Jordan Hemingway Jordan Hemingway claims to be a self-taught photographer and filmmaker based in London, is known for his narrative and visceral approach to visuals. His distinctive work has shaped campaigns for brands including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Mugler, Prada, and Gucci. Hemingway is also a frequent collaborator with FKA Twigs , having co-directed her live shows, directed music videos, and driven creative aspects for full album rollouts. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like New Launch at Godrej Sector 12 | Luxurious 3 BHK + S & 4 BHK Homes @₹2.90 Cr* Godrej Majesty Learn More Undo What Nothing and Jordan Hemingway said about this collaboration Talking about the collaboration, Hemingway said: 'I first found myself at Nothing's office a few years ago for an unrelated meeting to the Headphone (1) project. Even then, their spirit of innovation and fearless exploration left a mark on me. To return now, years later, to build something together is not just exciting, it's an honour.' Meanwhile, Ryan Latham , Nothing's Senior Director of Brand & Creative (Global) said: 'Working with Jordan was an instinctive fit, the team was drawn to his signature aesthetic that blends honesty, beauty, and raw brutality with innovation. His ability to challenge the traditional norms in the fashion space felt like an alignment to how we wanted to convey Headphone (1).' 'We loved the idea of portraiture to capture unique personalities. Jordan's work equally spans music and culture, and we knew he would bring experimentation and something very fresh to the campaign. His love of technology and the process felt like a real parallel with our own design team and made the whole project interesting and fun,' Ryan continued, Big Question Answered: Why Google is Merging Android and ChromeOS AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now