Renowned music composer Lalit Pandit and veteran playback singer Anuradha Paudwal have shared their thoughts on Arijit Singh’s recent decision to step away from new playback singing assignments. Speaking to ANI, both artists reflected on Arijit’s remarkable journey and the indelible mark he has left on the Indian music industry.
Arijit announced in January that he would no longer be taking up new playback projects. In a heartfelt message shared with fans on social media, he expressed gratitude for the immense love and support he has received over the years. Wishing everyone a Happy New Year, the singer wrote that he was “calling it off” as a playback vocalist and described the journey as wonderful. His announcement came as a surprise to many, considering he has remained one of the most sought-after voices in Bollywood for over a decade.
Lalit Pandit, who has known Arijit since his early days, recalled their first association. Arijit began his career as a contestant on the reality show Fame Gurukul in 2005. According to Lalit, after completing the show, Arijit approached him for training. He also revealed that music label Tips had signed the young singer around that time. Lalit fondly remembered that Arijit sang his first song for him and immediately stood out for his talent and dedication.
Describing Arijit as exceptionally gifted, Lalit praised not just his technical ability but also his emotional depth. “He adds a lot to a song — expression, style, voice quality, and the level of singing,” he said. The composer emphasized that singers with Arijit’s range and depth are rare in today’s industry. In his view, Arijit’s voice carries a unique emotional resonance that allows him to outshine his contemporaries. Lalit even remarked that it would be wonderful if more singers like him emerged in the industry.
Anuradha Paudwal also weighed in on the singer’s decision, calling it a brave and thoughtful move. She described Arijit as someone who does not act for fame or publicity. According to her, stepping back while being at the top of one’s career requires immense mental strength and stability. “It is not very easy to give up something when you are in the number one position,” she noted, highlighting the courage it takes to walk away from sustained success.
Arijit’s career trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. After his debut in Hindi cinema with “Phir Mohabbat” from Murder 2 in 2011, he rose to nationwide fame with “Tum Hi Ho” from Aashiqui 2 in 2013. The song became a cultural phenomenon and firmly established him as a leading playback singer.
Over the years, he has delivered numerous chart-topping hits that have become anthems of love and heartbreak. Tracks like “Channa Mereya,” “Agar Tum Saath Ho,” “Raabta,” “Kesariya,” “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil,” “Tera Yaar Hoon Main,” and “Tujhe Kitna Chahne Lage” showcase his versatility across genres and moods. He also lent his voice to “Hum To Tere Hi Liye The” from director Vishal Bhardwaj’s upcoming film O Romeo, further demonstrating his continued relevance before announcing his break.
Apart from being a playback singer, Arijit is also a composer, music producer, and instrumentalist. His musical sensibility, combined with a distinctive voice, has made him one of the defining artists of his generation.
While fans may miss hearing new playback songs from him, industry veterans believe his decision reflects maturity and self-awareness. Whether temporary or permanent, Arijit Singh’s contribution to Indian cinema music remains unparalleled, and his legacy is firmly etched in the hearts of listeners.