Mic Check: Karaoke is the New Nightlife Anthem

Karaoke nights are fast becoming Mumbai’s favourite escape, with bars across the city reporting packed evenings as crowds swap clubbing for singing. From Bollywood chartbusters to 90s pop nostalgia, karaoke has become the newest obsession in the city’s nightlife.Once considered a niche activity, karaoke nights have taken off dramatically post-Covid. “I’ve noticed a massive rise in karaoke nights across Mumbai, and it’s not just the crowd that’s catching on — even bar owners are seeing the potential,” says Deepan D’Souza, a karaoke host who has been running nights for over a decade. “Hindi karaoke in particular has exploded. It’s no longer limited to English songs or a small group; now you’ll find people of all ages belting out Bollywood hits with the same energy as international classics.

”But what is making the younger lot skip the queues of a club for a karaoke booth? “Clubbing has gotten too over-crowded,” says Dr. Rutuj Mali, who is a regular at karaoke booths, “Karaoke gives people the chance to be part of the chaos instead of just standing in it. You’re on stage, singing with friends, and releasing stress from the city’s hustle. It’s about owning the moment, not just dancing endlessly to a DJ.”Karaoke’s biggest strength is how it brings people together.

“Where clubbing doesn’t allow much verbal interaction, karaoke lets people interact and exchange emotions by singing and dedicating songs to loved ones. It also becomes a stage for introverts — with a little push, they grab the mic and transform into performers," says karaoke host Ruby Romana D’Souza. "When you go for a karaoke night, that is your chance and your space to unwind.

Also, it’s a no-judgement zone; you can literally sing in your worst voice and everyone will still vibe with you," Meghna Tiwari, corporate professional and karaoke enthusiast shares. Hospitality players are seeing this shift too. “What I love about karaoke nights here in Mumbai is how they bring people together,” says Aditi Malikk, Co-founder of Green Turtle Hospitality in Mumbai. She adds, “You see folks who’ve never met before cheering each other on, laughing, and sometimes even singing along. It’s not about being a great singer, it’s about letting go and feeling part of something bigger than yourself.

That’s the real charm.” "Clubbing will always have its place the music, the lights, that late-night energy. It’s fun, no doubt. But we’ve noticed a real shift lately. People are loving karaoke. There’s something about grabbing a mic with your friends, singing terribly or amazingly and just laughing together. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about having a good time. In a city like Mumbai where everyone’s always on the move, karaoke feels more personal.

More real. And I think that’s why it’s catching on so fast," Ketul Parikh, Founder, All Saints shares. The Khar based restaurant does a regular karaoke nights. Karaoke nights are not just a cultural phenomenon but also commercial hit. Gaurav Kanwar, Founder, Harajuku Tokyo Cafe, admits karaoke nights are profitable for them. "Singing and sipping go hand in hand, and we’ve noticed that alcohol sales spike significantly during karaoke nights. This naturally boosts the average per cover (APC), sometimes by 30% compared to a regular night. Operationally, karaoke also drives repeat visits," he shares.