Arijit Singh, the voice that has quietly soundtracked love, loss, longing and hope for an entire generation has announced his retirement from playback singing. The news, shared through his private social media accounts, sent a wave of surprise across the industry and among fans worldwide.
In a heartfelt note, Arijit expressed gratitude for the journey so far, writing, “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.”
While the announcement marks the end of a monumental era in Indian music, it is far from a farewell. Instead, it signals the beginning of a deeply personal and creatively charged phase, Arijit Singh, the filmmaker.
His upcoming Hindi directorial venture, a jungle adventure film, is already generating curiosity. The film stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s daughter, Shora, alongside Arijit’s son, marking a fresh on-screen pairing. It is co-produced by Arijit and his wife Koel Singh, along with Mahavir Jain.
Currently being shot in Shantiniketan, the film also features a special appearance by Nawazuddin Siddiqui himself, with veteran actor Dibyendu Bhattacharya playing a pivotal role. Arijit and Koel have co-written the script, and sources reveal that the film is slated to travel across several international film festivals ahead of its pan-India release.
This transition isn’t unfamiliar territory for Arijit. In 2018, he directed the Bengali film Sa, a lyrical coming-of-age story centered on a young boy’s relationship with music.
Actor Dibyendu Bhattacharya, who is part of the film, spoke candidly about Arijit’s presence on set.
“I see Arijit as a Sufi. Whether he is singing or directing, he is an absolute Sufi. As a director, he is extremely calm. He sits with actors, engages in meaningful conversations, and ensures no one feels pressurised. He allows the magic to happen naturally, it’s almost as if his camera breathes. For him, emotions always come before technicalities.”
Reflecting on Arijit’s decision to step away from singing, Dibyendu added, “I am a fan of his singing, and I genuinely feel he is one of the finest singers in the world. I love him as a director, but like everyone else, I also hope he sings a few songs again someday.”
Dibyendu, a Indian actor with numerous iconic roles such as DSP Barun Ghosh from the Undekhi franchise, the gripping Poacher, the emotionally complex Raza from the Rocket Boys, and the impactful Mission Raniganj, Dibyendu brings depth, sincerity, and quiet intensity to every frame. It will surely be intriguing to see him in a new role directed by the maestro Arijit Singh.