The music industry and millions of fans are still coming to terms with Arijit Singh’s surprising decision to retire from playback singing. The announcement, made by the celebrated singer earlier this week, has sent shockwaves across Bollywood and beyond, marking the end of an era defined by soulful melodies, emotional depth, and an unmistakable voice that became the soundtrack of a generation.
While several celebrities, including Shreya Ghoshal, Chinmayi, and Shilpa Rao, expressed shock and sadness over the news, many also lauded Arijit for having the courage to step away at the peak of his career. Now, veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt has shared his thoughts, offering a deeply philosophical perspective on the singer’s decision.
Speaking to The Telegraph Online, Mahesh Bhatt reflected on the nature of artistic journeys and the need for introspection. “At the height of their powers, some artists step away — not from art but from noise,” Bhatt said. “They choose silence, solitude, and truth over constant performance.” His words resonated with many who see Arijit’s move not as an end, but as a conscious pause rooted in self-awareness.
Bhatt also revisited his earliest memory of Arijit Singh, taking listeners back to the moment when the singer’s extraordinary journey truly began. He recalled meeting Arijit during the making of Aashiqui 2, the 2013 romantic musical that Bhatt produced and which went on to redefine Bollywood music.
“When I heard about Arijit’s decision to stop singing for others, I was unexpectedly taken back to an afternoon at Super Sound Service in Khar—the old T-Series building—where the journey of Aashiqui 2 truly began,” Bhatt shared. He described the music launch where Arijit was invited to sing Tum Hi Ho, a song that would soon become a cultural phenomenon.
“A shy, self-effacing young man walked up to the dais and sang a song that would quietly mesmerise the world,” Bhatt recalled. “That moment became a springboard into a life that would never be the same again.” The song catapulted Arijit into superstardom and cemented his place as one of the most sought-after playback singers in the country.
Arijit stunned fans on Tuesday evening when he announced that he would no longer accept new assignments as a playback vocalist. Sharing a heartfelt note on Instagram, the singer expressed gratitude and calm acceptance as he closed this chapter of his career.
“Hello, Happy New Year to all,” Arijit wrote. “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.”
The announcement triggered an outpouring of emotion online, with fans expressing disbelief, heartbreak, and gratitude in equal measure. Many acknowledged that Arijit’s voice had been a constant companion through their happiest and most painful moments.
Over the years, Arijit Singh delivered an extraordinary catalogue of songs that shaped modern Hindi film music. From the aching romance of Tum Hi Ho and Channa Mereya to the quiet longing of Agar Tum Saath Ho and Raabta, his voice carried emotional authenticity that few could replicate. Tracks like Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, Kesariya, Tera Yaar Hoon Main, and Tujhe Kitna Chahne Lage further showcased his range, vulnerability, and command over melody.
His most recent work includes Hum To Tere Hi Liye The from Vishal Bhardwaj’s upcoming film O Romeo, as well as Ghar Kab Aaoge from Border 2, now being remembered as some of his final playback contributions.
As Mahesh Bhatt’s words suggest, Arijit Singh’s departure from playback singing may not signify a withdrawal from music itself, but rather a step toward inner quiet and artistic truth. Whether he returns in a different form or remains silent, his legacy is already etched deeply into the heart of Indian cinema.
For fans and the industry alike, Arijit Singh’s voice may step back from the recording studio, but its echo will continue to linger for generations.
