In a surprising turn of events, Arijit Singh, one of India’s most celebrated playback singers, has decided to step away from the world of Bollywood soundtracks at the age of 38. The announcement, made via an emotional Instagram post, has left fans reeling. Singh stated that he will no longer accept new assignments as a playback vocalist, opting instead to return to his roots in Indian classical music.
A Heartfelt Farewell to Playback
The news broke on social media, where Singh expressed his gratitude for the love he has received throughout his career. “I want to thank you all for giving me so much of love all these years as listeners. I am happy to announce that I am not gonna be taking any new assignments as a playback vocalist from now on. I am calling it off. It was a wonderful journey,” he shared with his followers.
For many, the announcement felt surreal, prompting some to speculate whether his account had been compromised. However, Singh later clarified his intentions, reassuring fans that he was not abandoning music entirely but rather shifting his focus back to the classical genre.
A Return to Roots
In a follow-up post on X, Singh elaborated on his decision, citing multiple reasons for his departure from playback singing. He admitted, “I get bored pretty quick, that’s why I keep changing arrangements of the same songs and perform them on stage. So, here is the thing, I got bored. I need to do some other music to live.” His passion for Indian classical music has always been a significant part of his identity, and he expressed a desire to explore this facet of his artistry further.
Singh made it clear that while he is stepping back from new projects, he still has some existing commitments to fulfil. “Just to be clear that I won’t stop making music,” he stated, leaving a glimmer of hope for fans eagerly awaiting his future endeavours.
A Journey Through Music
Born in Murshidabad, West Bengal, Singh’s musical journey commenced at the tender age of three, with formal training in Indian classical music and percussion. He gained recognition as a contestant on the reality television show *Fame Gurukul* in 2005, which marked the beginning of his rise to fame. His Bollywood debut came in 2011 with the song “Phir Mohabbat,” but it was his iconic track “Tum Hi Ho” from *Aashiqui 2* that truly catapulted him to stardom.
Over the years, Singh has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the industry, including AR Rahman and Pritam, and has even ventured into international projects, such as his recent singles with Ed Sheeran and Martin Garrix. His performance at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last September marked a significant milestone, as he became the first Indian artist to headline a British stadium.
The Future of Arijit Singh
Fans will undoubtedly miss Singh’s soulful voice gracing the Bollywood scene, but his return to classical music may open new doors for creativity and artistry. As he embarks on this fresh chapter, the hope is that he will continue to inspire and connect with audiences in innovative ways.
Why it Matters
Singh’s decision to retire from playback singing resonates deeply within the Indian music industry, where playback singers hold a cherished place in the hearts of millions. His shift towards classical music not only highlights a yearning for artistic authenticity but also underscores the importance of nurturing cultural roots in an ever-evolving musical landscape. As he embarks on this new journey, Singh’s evolution could pave the way for a resurgence of interest in Indian classical music, inspiring both established artists and aspiring musicians alike.
