A talented singer has made his dream come true as he prepares to take to the stage at this year’s East London Mela.

Junai Kaden’s performance will come hot on the heels of his second single release Nai Chaida Tera Pyaar, which means I don’t need your love in Punjabi, released last week.

It is only the beginning of a two-month tour of around 20 Mela festivals in the country.

Junai, 20, of Roslyn Road, Barking, said: “It’s like a dream come true. I used to stand in the crowd at this Mela and was wishing to be onstage.

“Now I have finally got my chance.”

Born and raised in Barking, the former Barking Abbey student discovered his talent on visits to Lahore, Pakistan, where his uncles encouraged him to sing.

He said: “I have always loved singing. Going back to Pakistan and seeing my uncles sing and perform amazed me. I thought, this is something I really want to do.”

He learned to play the piano and dhol, and trained in classical Indian, operatic and R’n’B singing styles.

He said: “My music is young, fun and dancey. It’s for everyone to enjoy. There is a flowover from Bollywood and Bhangra to R&B and pop. I want to cater to everyone.”

Junai, son of Abbey ward Cllr Laila Butt, was spotted on a course at Rishi Rich Academy in central London’s Pineapple Studios.

Tiffin Beats Record company signed him a year ago, and in April he released his first single, Aaja Mere Naal.

With producer Mumzy Stranger he is finishing his debut album, news which will be welcomed by his worldwide fanbase and more than 1,000 Twitter followers.

He said: “I’m very lucky. Sometimes it feels surreal.”

East London Mela is on Sunday, July 3 at Barking Park, Longbridge Road.

Entry is �5 for adults and �3 for children under 12. Under-fives get in for free.

Junai Kaden is on Facebook and Twitter.

n You can view the video for Aaja Mere Naal on his website www.junaikaden.com.