Singing the night away: How karaoke has become Delhi’s favourite pastime

The neon-lit alleys of Majnu Ka Tilla explode in a splash of colours as the sun dips below the horizon. As evening sets in, the neon lights come alive, illuminating the market’s maze-like streets. Beyond the monastery, a vibrant jumble of hoardings beckons visitors, many boasting their claim to fame in the world of karaoke in the national capital.

A karaoke haven in Majnu Ka Tilla

“Korean karaoke” and “Karaoke room inside” are phrases that greet visitors throughout their journey into the heart of the market. While the eateries remain packed throughout the week, the karaoke rooms witness an equally enthusiastic crowd. Scores of students from Delhi University’s nearby North Campus form the majority of visitors, alongside the occasional family or tourist. The age of visitors usually borders the college-going to late 20s crowd, something that becomes more apparent inside the karaoke destinations scattered across the Tibetan resettlement zone.

Karaoke, an interactive form of entertainment where individuals sing along to recorded music with lyrics displayed on a screen, originated in Japan in the 1970s. The term “karaoke” combines “kara” (meaning “empty”) and “oke” (short for “orchestra”), reflecting the concept of singing without a live band. Today, it is a global phenomenon blending music, performance, and social bonding, attracting everyone from shy beginners to confident crooners.

Karaoke culture in Delhi

In Delhi, karaoke has carved out a vibrant niche, mirroring the city’s dynamic and eclectic spirit. Known for its bustling energy and diverse population, the capital has embraced karaoke as a popular pastime, particularly among the youth and working professionals. The trend thrives in various settings—from trendy bars and lounges to dedicated karaoke cafés and private house parties. While places like Hauz Khas Village and Connaught Place also offer karaoke nights, the concept of private karaoke rooms remains unique to Majnu Ka Tilla.

Each night, a huge set of crowds gathers around karaoke machines to belt out Bollywood classics, Punjabi hits, and international pop anthems. The love for Bollywood music, with its emotive melodies and dramatic flair, naturally fuels the karaoke scene. However, English songs, Punjabi beats, and even regional music from different states have their own loyal following.

Karaoke in Delhi is more than just singing; it is a community experience. It serves as a social equaliser—whether you are a college student, a corporate employee unwinding after work, or a group of friends celebrating the weekend, karaoke offers a stage to let loose. Venues heighten the experience with dim lighting, vibrant screens, and enthusiastic hosts, creating an atmosphere that is part party, part performance. Some venues even provide private karaoke rooms, inspired by Japan’s “karaoke box” model, catering to those who prefer a more intimate experience over public applause.

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Delhiites bring their characteristic zeal to the mic, turning karaoke nights into lively events filled with cheers, laughter, and occasional dance moves. It is common to hear a mix of languages—Hindi, Punjabi, and English—as singers switch seamlessly between heartfelt renditions of Arijit Singh ballads and high-energy performances of Badshah’s rap tracks. For many, karaoke is not just about hitting the right notes—it is a way to express, connect, and revel in the moment, making it an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric.

A growing crowd and rising popularity

Karaoke is no longer limited to the younger crowd; it has found takers among older generations as well. According to the manager of Le Dragon House in Majnu Ka Tilla, visitor footfall remains steady throughout the week, with the peak starting from Friday and lasting until Sunday. “We are one of the oldest karaoke rooms in Majnu Ka Tilla, operational since 2012. Since then, the footfall has only increased. Presently, we have 12 rooms spread across the building, and we get around 25 groups of customers on average every day,” said Namdak.

As another group of college students made their way to the private rooms on the second floor, he pointed out that most patrons were students. “It is mostly DU students who come to Majnu Ka Tilla for dinner. Invariably, they also stop by for karaoke. They guarantee us regular business, but we also get office-goers over the weekend,” he said.

More public karaoke bars, based in areas like Hauz Khas and Connaught Place, offer specific karaoke nights. These venues often feature an in-house singer and a DJ to control microphone settings and prevent high-pitched vocals from overpowering the room. At Record Room in Hauz Khas, Wednesday nights see the highest turnout. “Everyone wants to be a singer, it seems. Karaoke nights bring in the most sales outside of weekends. The crowd is also diverse, ranging from the very young to people around 45 years old,” said Felicia, a bartender.

Beyond bars: Karaoke in homes and RWAs

While karaoke bars flourish, the craze has extended beyond commercial venues. What was once considered a toy for children has now become a staple at house parties, kitty parties, and even card parties. Many drawing rooms have transformed into makeshift karaoke parlours where people, regardless of age, let loose and sing their hearts out.

To put matters into perspective, on Amazon itself, two separate karaoke machines rank among the bestsellers list under the Electronics category, occupying the third and fourth positions. This reflects a growing trend of people investing in home karaoke setups.

Similarly, many homes now feature karaoke setups, catering to both young and old music lovers. Jaivir Dhama, 62, a resident of East Vinod Nagar, turns his apartment into a karaoke hub every weekend for his closest friends and relatives. “It is the most fun we have together as friends. We keep our favourite beverages beside us and dedicate the night to music. Earlier, we used to play antakshari, but with karaoke machines, it is much easier—and there is a feeling of being a popstar,” he chuckled.

Even Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) are taking notice. “There are some RWAs in South Delhi which have started using karaoke devices, but many are still in the planning phase. We have different forms of musical nights, like sangeet sammelans,” said a spokesperson from United RWAs Joint Action, a collective of RWAs.

With each passing day, karaoke is becoming more synonymous as an age-friendly method of entertainment. No matter one’s age, they can always choose to take the stage and let the hottest singles rip.