Arijit Singh Bids Farewell to Playback Singing - But Not to Music

On January 27, 2026, Arijit took to social media to share a heartfelt message with fans, saying he would no longer take up any new playback singing assignments. In his own words: “I am calling it off. It was a wonderful journey.” He thanked listeners for their unwavering support throughout his career and described his time as a playback singer as something truly special.

Arijit Singh’s Emotional Exit from Playback Singing

India’s most soulful voice, Arijit Singh, recently announced that he will no longer take new playback singing assignments, bringing his Bollywood playback era to a close. While the news shocked millions, Arijit clarified that this isn’t retirement from music itself he plans to continue creating outside of the film industry. His heartfelt message "I am calling it off. It was a wonderful journey" struck a chord with fans who’ve long associated his voice with love, heartbreak, and timeless emotions. From his breakthrough with “Tum Hi Ho” to heart-tuggers like “Channa Mereya” and “Agar Tum Saath Ho” Arijit has defined an entire generation’s emotional landscape.

Star Reactions: Music Industry and Beyond Respond

The music and entertainment industries poured in with love, admiration, and support following Arijit’s announcement. Armaan Malik praised him with the words, “The soul knows when it’s time to change direction,” while Shreya Ghoshal and Sona Mohapatra viewed it as an evolution, not an end. Veteran singer Udit Narayan called Arijit’s work “etched in hearts,” and Chinmayi Sripada described his decision as one coming from a “higher calling.” Even outside music, cricket legend Virat Kohli's older statement resurfaced, calling himself “probably one of the biggest fans” of Arijit, showing just how far-reaching his influence has been.

The Musical Legacy: Songs That Made Arijit Singh a Legend

Arijit Singh’s discography is nothing short of legendary. His romantic hits like “Tum Hi Ho” “Tujhe Kitna Chahne Lage” and “Shayad” became anthems of modern love. Heartbreak ballads such as “Channa Mereya” “Humdard” and “Phir Bhi Tumko Chaahunga” offered solace to millions. He’s also shown versatility with tracks like “Kesariya” “Sooraj Dooba Hain” and “Ae Watan.” These songs not only topped charts but became deeply embedded in the Indian cultural and emotional psyche. Arijit’s mastery in conveying raw, human emotion through melody and modulation makes his music unforgettable, even as he moves beyond playback singing.

IPL’s Iconic Moment: Arijit Singh and MS Dhoni’s Viral Connection

One of the most heartwarming IPL moments came during the 2023 opening ceremony, when Arijit Singh touched MS Dhoni’s feet on stage in front of thousands. The gesture was a powerful symbol of respect from a musical icon to a cricketing legend. Dhoni responded with a warm smile and a hug, and the moment quickly went viral. Fans called it “two legends in one frame,” celebrating the authenticity of their interaction. It showcased the beautiful crossover between India’s two biggest passions music and cricket and remains one of the most emotional and human moments in IPL history.

The Deva Deva Performance That Lit Up the IPL Stage

At the same IPL 2023 ceremony, Arijit delivered a stunning live performance of “Om Deva Deva” from Brahmāstra, captivating a crowd of over 100,000 people. His spiritually charged rendition lit up the stadium, and fans were thrilled to spot MS Dhoni enjoying the moment from the stands. This fusion of cinematic music and sports created an unforgettable experience, and videos of Dhoni’s subtle grooves during the song took over social media. Arijit’s voice added grandeur and emotional depth to the occasion, turning his performance into one of the most replayed and talked-about moments of that IPL season.

A Farewell That Feels Personal

For so many of us, Arijit Singh wasn’t just a singer he was the voice that spoke when our hearts couldn’t find the words. He gave melody to our first love, our deepest heartbreak, our quiet moments of reflection, and our loudest celebrations. Saying goodbye to his presence in Bollywood playback isn’t just the end of a musical chapter; it feels like parting with a friend who understood us without ever meeting us. While he steps away from film songs, the echo of his voice will stay with us in playlists, in memories, in late-night drives and wedding dances. Arijit’s voice is woven into the soul of this generation, and though this goodbye brings a lump to the throat, it’s also a silent thank you. Thank you, Arijit, for being the voice of our emotions.