Arijit Singh Announces Retirement from Playback Singing: “I Am Calling It Off” – Fans Left in Shock!

In a stunning announcement that has sent shockwaves through the Indian music industry, renowned playback singer Arijit Singh has declared that he will no longer accept any new assignments as a playback vocalist for films.

The 38-year-old singer shared the news via his Instagram account (and reportedly his private X handle) on January 27, 2026, just days after the release of his latest track “Maatrubhumi” from the upcoming film Battle of Galwan (starring Salman Khan), which dropped around Republic Day.

In his heartfelt post, Arijit wrote:

“Hello, Happy New Year to all. I want to thank you for giving me so much 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 further clarified that this decision does not mean the end of his music career. Arijit emphasized that he will honor existing commitments (with potential releases still lined up in 2026), continue creating independent music, return to his roots in Indian classical music, and explore composition, production, and new creative paths. He expressed excitement about being inspired by upcoming talent and making music on his own terms.

A Journey That Defined an Era

Arijit Singh began his musical journey with classical training in his early years. He first gained attention through the reality show Fame Gurukul in 2005. His Bollywood debut came in 2011 with “Phir Mohabbat” from Murder 2, but true stardom arrived in 2013 with “Tum Hi Ho” from Aashiqui 2—a song that became an anthem for romance and heartbreak.

Over the past decade-plus, his soulful voice dominated Hindi film music with timeless hits like:

• “Channa Mereya” (Ae Dil Hai Mushkil)
• “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” title track
• “Kesariya” (Brahmāstra)
• “Gerua” (Dilwale)
• “Raabta” (Raabta)
• “Binte Dil” (Padmaavat)

He also lent his voice to Tamil cinema, including the evergreen “Naan Un Azhaginile” from Suriya’s 24, which remains a fan favorite.

Accolades and Legacy

Arijit’s contributions have earned him:

• 2 National Film Awards for Best Male Playback Singer
• Multiple Filmfare Awards (including a recent one that tied or matched legends like Kishore Kumar)
• Padma Shri in 2025
• Record-breaking streaming numbers: As of early 2026, he holds over 171 million monthly listeners on Spotify—surpassing global icons like Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran.

Fan and Industry Reactions

The announcement triggered an outpouring of emotions online. Fans flooded social media with messages like:

• “This is Virat Kohli Test retirement-level shock!”
• “No No No Arijit… you cannot do this!”
• “Thank you for everything, but please reconsider”

Many expressed heartbreak at the thought of Bollywood films without his signature emotional depth, while others respected his choice to prioritize artistic freedom over constant film commitments.

Arijit Singh’s decision marks the end of one chapter—but the beginning of another focused on independent creation and classical roots. As he bids farewell to new playback projects, his existing body of work ensures his voice will continue to echo for generations.

Thank you, Arijit Singh, for the wonderful journey. Your music lives on forever.