Everything is opening up and yet the pandemic is here to stay. But at least, when we are dining at a restaurant, there'll be live music that our hearts can sway to and our feet can tap to. And one of the voices that has regaled the crowd in many-a-happening place in Hyderabad is that of Prateek Jumrani, who has called the City of Nizams his home since 2018. Hailing from Gwalior, trained in Gwalior Gharana ("the great Tansen was part of this gharana," Prateek reminds us) and having exercised his vocal cords to the fullest by playing for the best hotels in Ahmedabad, today, the 26-year-old is all set to rule the roost again when it comes to the live music scene in Hyderabad.

On stage | (Pic: Prateek Jumrani)

And if you are an aspiring musician, looking to break into the scene, Prateek's wise words will hold you in good stead. Riyaaz and tayari (practice and preparation) are two pillars on which he recommends musicians should build their foundation on. "Even if you believe your voice is the gift of God, you need to polish it. In this context, riyaaz becomes very important. And tayari comes in when you perform more and more," says Prateek, who aspires to strengthen his riyaaz by learning more and adds that seeking a teacher is the most important of it all. Another vital aspect of performing live, he says, is reading the crowd. "Observe them. Are they singing along? Even if they are lip-syncing unconsciously that's a good sign," he says.

Though Prateek regales the audience with peppy Bollywood songs, his heart beats for the melody of ghazals and mysticism of Sufi music. After he has serenaded the audience with their favourites and has them eating out of his hand, he sneaks in a line or two from the timeless ghazals of Ghulam Ali or Jagjit Singh.
 

He has participated in a music show on GTPL, a national channel. He also opened for the popular singer Shirley Setia

Another area of interest for this musician is F&B and thus, he started Jumrani's Kitchen in August this year. This cloud kitchen started with a 3.8 rating and climbed to 4.3 in a month on Zomato, we are told. And what are they known for? Authentic vada pav, sandwiches and North Indian food. And on the music front, he desperately wants to work on his own songs. Hopefully soon, he promises. "Whatever I am in my life, it is because of my parents' moral support and my gurus," he concludes.

For more on him, check out instagram.com/prateekjumrani