Ahead of the Goa stint of the Chandni Bar Tour 2.0, DJ Chetas reflects on a career built on music and nostalgia
VINIKA VISWAMBHARAN
For more than a decade, Chetas Shah, better known as DJ Chetas, has been one of the biggest names shaping India’s party scene.
Ranked World No. 33 on the DJ MAG Top 100 DJs list, the artiste is renowned for his Bollywood mash-ups and remixes.
“My inclination towards music started at a very young age,” he says. “DJing wasn’t something I planned. It grew out of pure passion and a genuine love for music. What began as a hobby slowly evolved into a career, and over the years, that passion has only grown stronger.”
That lifelong love for music is also what inspired Chandni Bar Tour 2.0, a celebration of the 90s, the golden era of Hindi cinema. “I grew up listening to 90s Bollywood music, and it’s still a huge part of what inspires me,” he explains. “The idea behind this tour was to give today’s generation a glimpse into that golden era while blending it with modern sounds, creating an experience that connects both generations.”
And while music trends continue to evolve, DJ Chetas believes the songs of the 1990s have retained their appeal because of their emotional connection. “The melodies from that era are simply timeless,” he says. “They still feel fresh even today, and that’s why people across generations continue to connect with them. Those songs carry emotions and memories that never fade.”
But updating classics requires striking a careful balance between old and new, he acknowledges. “It’s all about finding the sweet spot,” he says. “I always make sure the soul and essence of the original song remain intact while giving it a fresh, modern production.”
As Chandni Bar Tour 2.0 arrives in Goa, DJ Chetas says audiences can expect a complete celebration of nostalgia. Rather than relying solely on music, the show recreates the atmosphere of an old-school Bollywood nightclub. Guests can expect to step into a retro-inspired club setting, complete with nostalgic décor, immersive performances and a carefully curated soundtrack.
With the state long been associated with music and nightlife, it remains one of his favourite places to perform. “The crowd energy here is incredible, and every weekend you get to play for a fresh audience. There’s a unique vibe that makes every show exciting.”
Although his signature style remains consistent, he reveals that every city receives its own musical flavour. “Every city has its own musical preferences, so I always tweak my setlist accordingly,” he says. “Goa will definitely have a few exclusive surprises and special moments that are designed specifically for the audience here.”
Over the years, DJ Chetas has worked alongside some of Bollywood’s biggest names. Yet one collaboration stands above the rest. “The one that’s closest to my heart is ‘Jab Koi Baat’ with Atif Aslam and Shirley Setia,” he says. “Collaborating with Atif was a dream come true, and it’s a project I’ll always cherish.”
Despite countless performances at clubs, festivals and large-scale events, he says the thrill of stepping on stage has never diminished because every crowd is different. “Seeing people connect with my music, sing along, dance, and have the
time of their lives is the biggest motivation. That energy is what keeps me going every single show.”
He has also witnessed India’s live music industry grow significantly over the past decade. “Attendance has increased across the country, especially in smaller cities where
audiences are now more eager than ever to experience live shows. At the same time, DJs are receiving far more artistic recognition and respect than they did a decade ago,” he says.
For aspiring remix artistes, he believes respecting the original remains essential. “A successful remix stays true to the heart of the original song,” he says. “The reason the original became a classic should never be lost. People naturally compare remixes to the originals, so preserving that emotion while adding a fresh, contemporary sound is the key to creating something people genuinely love.”
As for audiences attending the Chandni Bar Tour 2.0 in Goa, he promises an evening that goes beyond music. “It’s much more than a party. It’s an experience,” he says. “If you love Bollywood
music, nostalgia, and unforgettable nights, Chandni Bar Tour 2.0 is something you simply can’t miss. It’s a celebration of an era that continues to bring people together through music.”
(DJ Chetas will perform on August 7, 15, 21, and 30 at UNVRS, Vagator.)
