Melodies of Success: An Interview with Jashan Bhumkar, Classical Singer and Entrepreneur

An interview with Jashan Bhumkar, Classical Singer and Entrepreneur

In this exclusive interview, we delve into the life and artistry of Jashan Bhumkar, a remarkable classical singer and entrepreneur.

With a captivating stage presence, Jashan has made a name for himself in the world of classical music and Ghazals, performing at prestigious venues both in India and abroad. His dedication to fitness and his impressive academic background further highlight his multifaceted personality.

Can you share your journey into the world of classical music and what inspired you to pursue a career as a classical singer?

Jashan Bhumkar: My journey into classical music began long before I knew what a “career” meant. Even as a toddler, I was drawn to sur—to melody itself—as a form of companionship. Despite no professional musician in the family, music felt like an inner language I was born with.

I trained in Hindustani classical music through the Guru-Shishya Parampara, in the most traditional and immersive way. Over the years, while I pursued chemical engineering and eventually became an entrepreneur in the chemicals and pharma space, music remained a core part of my identity. It was never a detour—it’s been a parallel journey of emotional and spiritual growth.

How do you balance your performances between classical music and Ghazal, and what draws you to each genre?

Jashan Bhumkar: Classical music is where I learned discipline and surrender—it’s a vast, meditative world that allows you to explore the deepest layers of your inner self. Ghazals, on the other hand, feel like a conversation—intimate, poetic, and immediate.

I didn’t formally train in Ghazal, but I was always captivated by how they express every shade of love through melody and verse.

I balance both by staying rooted in emotion—deciding what I want to say and letting the genre follow. Some days you want to contemplate; other days, you want to speak straight from the heart.

What are some of the challenges you face while performing live concerts, and how do you overcome them?

Jashan Bhumkar: Live concerts are magical—but unpredictable. Acoustics, audience energy, technical issues, even your own emotional state can vary. One of the biggest challenges is staying inwardly anchored while being outwardly expressive.

I try to treat each performance as a fresh offering—a new dialogue with the audience. Breathing, staying present, and trusting the raga to guide me always helps.

My Guru taught me never to cling to past successes—so I carry forward the learning, but leave the applause behind.

Can you tell us about your experience recording commercial albums? How does the process differ from live performances?

Jashan Bhumkar: Recording commercial music, especially in unfamiliar genres like jazz or contemporary pop, has been both exciting and humbling. It forced me to completely shift gears—rethinking my vocal technique, diction, even the way I emphasize syllables.

Unlike live performances, where energy flows in the moment, recordings are clinical. Every detail matters.

But I always try to retain that emotional core—because that’s what ultimately reaches people, whether it’s in a concert hall or through headphones.

What role do you think classical music plays in today’s music industry, and how do you see it evolving?

Jashan Bhumkar: Classical music is timeless—it’s the foundation, the soul. In today’s fast-paced world, where everything is compressed and filtered, classical music offers depth, stillness, and truth. I don’t think it needs to “compete” with other genres.

It needs to evolve in how it’s presented. We can reimagine formats, collaborate across styles, and create experiences that resonate with younger audiences—without diluting the essence. As long as the emotion is real, classical music will always find a home.

Can you share a memorable performance experience that stands out in your career?

Jashan Bhumkar: Each concert has its own story, but one that stands out is my performance at the Kala Ghoda Festival in Mumbai.

I introduced a concept called Love Through the Ages, where we presented melodies across classical, semi-classical, folk, and Sufi—centred around the theme of love.

Performing that with a group of brilliant musicians, and seeing the audience respond so warmly, was incredibly fulfilling. Another cherished memory is performing in London and San Francisco during my student days—bringing Indian music to global audiences in packed auditoriums was a proud moment.

What projects or collaborations are you currently working on, and what can your fans look forward to in the future?

Jashan Bhumkar: There’s a lot I’m excited about. I’m working on a monsoon-themed fusion series that explores emotional transformation through Ragas, a semi-classical Ghazal collection, and a set of digital collaborations that reimagine classical compositions for newer audiences.

I’m also exploring music in different languages and genres—from devotional to contemporary—always staying rooted in authenticity. As I often say: Abhi toh party shuru hui hai.

What advice would you give to aspiring classical singers looking to make their mark in the industry?

Be patient. Be honest. And be willing to surrender. Classical music is a lifelong journey, not a race. Build your foundation with care, stay consistent with your riyaaz, and develop a voice that reflects your truth—not just in sound, but in spirit.

Don’t chase trends—chase connection. If what you sing is real, it will resonate. Whether you’re singing on a big stage or to a single listener, remember: the raga doesn’t lie.

Jashan Bhumkar embodies the spirit of a new generation of classical musicians, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary influences.

As he continues to evolve as an artist and entrepreneur, his passion for music and fitness remains unwavering. We look forward to witnessing his future endeavors and the impact he will undoubtedly make in the music industry.

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