Acclaimed Indian playback singer Arijit Singh stunned music lovers and the Bollywood film fraternity this week by announcing that he is stepping away from playback singing, despite being at the height of his career. The double National‑award‑winning artist shared a heartfelt message on his official Instagram account on January 27, 2026, revealing that he would no longer accept new assignments as a playback vocalist. Singh described his journey in film music as “a wonderful journey” and thanked his fans for their unwavering support over the years. According to screenshots circulating from his private X account, Singh expressed gratitude for the love he has received and explained that it was time for him to make a change in his professional path.
The announcement came just days after the release of one of his latest songs, Matrubhumi, recorded for the upcoming film Battle of Galwan, which only added to the surprise among fans and industry peers. Known for delivering some of contemporary Bollywood’s most iconic songs from soulful ballads to romantic anthems, Singh has become one of the most-streamed and influential artists in Indian music. His breakthrough came with Aashiqui 2, and over the past decade and a half, he has lent his voice to hundreds of songs in Hindi and multiple regional languages.
While the singer did not provide a detailed explanation for his decision, sources close to him suggest that the shift reflects his desire to explore music beyond the constraints of film assignments. Industry insiders say Singh has often spoken about wanting to work on his own terms and create music that aligns more with his personal artistic vision. He has also hinted in earlier interviews that he sometimes feels restless and seeks new creative directions. Despite stepping back from playback singing, there is no indication that Singh is retiring from music entirely. Many fans and experts believe this move could signal a new chapter in his career, perhaps focusing on independent music, classical influences, or other creative roles in the arts.
The announcement has sparked widespread reactions across social media, with fans expressing a mix of heartbreak and support, while fellow musicians and industry figures have praised his decision to prioritize artistic freedom
