In a city known for its food scene and fast-growing tech culture, a quieter movement is gaining momentum — one that smells of melting wax and freshly brewed coffee, and looks like messy hands, half-finished paintings, and laughter shared over glitter. Across Hyderabad, art cafés are offering hands-on experiences that blend creativity, social connection, and a much-needed pause from the digital churn.
These cafés are experiential hubs where people tuft rugs, pour candles, paint, and reconnect with the joy of making something.
At Lyzure, nestled in Jubilee Hills, the inspiration came from burnout. “There was a gap; people were craving ways to unwind that weren’t just about food or screens,” says founder Niharika Gollapalli.
Lyzure positions itself as an art therapy cafe and offers tufting, pottery, candle and soap-making, DIY crafts, and painting stations — beginner-friendly and open to all ages. Prices range between ₹900 and ₹2500, and reservations can be made on their website (lyzure.com).
That warmth resonates with visitors like Anvitha Kollipara, a college rising sophomore, who recently spent an afternoon tufting with her mom and middle school attending younger sister. “We were all completely absorbed in our own pieces, but also helping each other along the way,” she says.
For the cafe, that kind of intergenerational joy is exactly the point. “We want our activities to be as satisfying for a six-year-old as they are for a 60-year-old,” says Gollapalli.
Art enthusiasts at Ignite cafe
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Ignite Candle Bar and Art Café in Financial District taps into something equally personal. Founded by 21-year-old Shreya Gudena, Ignite was inspired by childhood memories of doing crafts with cousins. “My cousins and I always looked for places to do something hands-on instead of just eating out. I wanted to create that space for others,” she says.
Ignite offers varied activities, from perfume-making and candle pouring to acrylic painting sessions. Prices start at ₹800 and can go up to ₹3500, based on complexity and materials. Customers can book sessions through their website.
But not every art café in Hyderabad was born from creative nostalgia. In Banjara Hills, Socio blends artistic expression with wellness. Founded by Dr. Shravya Ravipati, the cafe was envisioned as a space to heal and connect through art. “Opening an art space as a doctor may seem unusual,” she says, “but my passion for art has always been a source of balance and expression.”
More art spots in Hyderabad
Urban Nemo Cafe, Jubilee Hills: Kokedama, pottery and bouquet making.
Artgram, Banjara Hills: Mosaic, Lippan art, mandalas, glass painting and slime studio.
Aaromale, Film Nagar: Workshops range from making eco-friendly products to art journaling.
Socio’s offerings range from visual art workshops and community events to music, dance, and even yoga sessions. The space is designed to be inclusive, reflective, and dynamic, encouraging everyone to explore their creativity without pressure. Pricing varies depending on the event, with updates shared via @socioartplace on Instagram. “We want people to share their stories, express themselves, and find solace in the process,” Shravya explains.
Whether it’s crafting a candle or painting alongside strangers, these spaces speak to a larger cultural shift — especially among Gen Z and millennial audiences — away from passive consumption and toward tactile, intentional creation.
(The writer interned with The Hindu)
Published – September 26, 2025 01:59 pm IST