Guru Somayaji (IN)

A former journalist and a drummer, Guru’s foray into the music industry began with stage management and production for Bangalore rockers Thermal And A Quarter. He went on to write his Masters degree thesis on the music industry and its media, alongside organising UK tours, promoting gigs in Glasgow and working as a tour driver for indie bands. He has been instrumental in conceptualising and executing CounterCulture’s standalone gigs, music festivals, album launches and musical showcases. Apart from working with artistes, Guru also designs lighting rigs and production for live performances, and freelances as a stage manager for outdoor festivals. When not multitasking, he is either cruising on his motorcycle or cooking up a fine seven-course meal.

CounterCulture began as a restaurant, a bar and an open space. It originated with a thought to encourage and showcase alternative ideas – a thought that transformed along the way to become a versatile platform for creative pursuits. Now in its fourth year, CounterCulture is all the more determined, and excited, to create new experiences for those who walk in through its big, yellow gates. While they continue to design a wide range of live performances, they are now applying our signature experimental approach to more than just music. CounterCulture has taken its live performance expertise beyond its four walls a number of times, signing on to consult for other venues, festivals and concerts, helping to create brands out of properties.