Arijit Singh announces retirement from playback singing, says he will continue making music

Taking to Instagram, the celebrated vocalist thanked listeners for their unwavering support over the years and confirmed that he will no longer take up new assignments as a playback singer.

“Hello, Happy New Year to all. I want to thank you all for giving me so much love all these years as listeners. I am happy to announce that I am not going to be taking any new assignments as a playback vocalist from now on. I am calling it off. It was a wonderful journey,” Arijit wrote.

The singer had earlier shared the decision through a series of posts on his private X account.

In another message, he reflected on his journey and future plans, saying, “God has been really kind to me. I am a fan of good music and in future will be learning more and do more on my own as a small little artist. Thanks again for all your support.”

Will continue making music

Clarifying speculation, Arijit stressed that he is not stepping away from music entirely. “Just to be clear that I won’t stop making music,” he wrote.

Responding humorously to a fan who questioned his decision, he replied, “Justify my inappropriate decision!!?” followed by a laughing emoji.

He also confirmed that he will complete existing commitments. “I still have to finish some pending commitments. Will finish them, so you might get some releases this year,” he said.

Fans react with shock

The announcement triggered an emotional response online.

One fan compared it to “Virat Kohli’s Test retirement-level shock,” while another wrote, “He has given us generational hits like Tum Hi Ho, Binte Dil and Laal Ishq. This hurts, but I respect his choice.”

Some listeners, however, felt the decision might bring space for new voices. “His voice is everywhere. I was missing versatility in playback singing,” a user commented.

About Arijit Singh

Arijit Singh is also a composer, music producer and instrumentalist.

He began his career as a contestant on the reality show Fame Gurukul in 2005 and made his Bollywood playback debut with Phir Mohabbat from Murder 2 (2011).

Over the years, he has delivered numerous chart-topping songs including Tum Hi Ho, Binte Dil, Kesariya and many more. He has won multiple awards, including two National Film Awards, and was conferred the Padma Shri in 2025.