Several voices from the Indian music industry have shared thoughtful reactions after Arijit Singh announced his decision to step away from playback singing, marking a significant moment in contemporary Indian music. Singers Sona Mohapatra, Shreya Ghoshal, and Shilpa Rao took to social media to reflect on what the move means—not as an ending, but as a shift toward artistic freedom and new creative possibilities.
Among the most detailed responses came from Sona Mohapatra, who questioned why Arijit’s decision was being viewed with a sense of finality. In a long Instagram note, she urged people to see the announcement as a conscious choice rather than a loss. According to her, Arijit is not stepping away from music, but redefining how and where he creates it. She described the move as an entry into freedom, authorship, and self-driven artistry, adding that such a path was rarely imagined by singers before him.
Sona also highlighted a larger issue within the film music ecosystem, pointing to the industry’s reliance on familiar, low-risk formulas. She noted that one voice often dominates soundtracks, while newer or demo singers remain unseen and unpaid. In her view, Arijit’s decision—intentional or not—opens up space for emerging voices and disrupts a cycle that has long favoured convenience over creative diversity. Calling the move brave and generous, she described it as a positive disruption that could lead to a more inclusive musical landscape.
Addressing the emotional reactions surrounding the announcement, Sona questioned why listeners were responding as if an era had ended. She emphasised that Arijit continues to make music and encouraged audiences to embrace variety and imagination rather than fearing change. Concluding her note, she celebrated artists who choose freedom over fear, stating that such decisions often mark the beginning of new creative eras beyond the boundaries of film music.
Shreya Ghoshal, who has collaborated with Arijit on several memorable songs, also responded warmly to his announcement. Reacting in the comments section of his post, she described this moment as the start of a new phase rather than the end of an era. She expressed excitement about the work Arijit may create moving forward, adding that an artist of his calibre cannot be confined to traditional definitions or formats.
Shilpa Rao echoed similar sentiments, sharing a brief but heartfelt message of support. She praised Arijit’s sincerity as an artist and wished him well in whatever path he chooses next.
Arijit Singh made the announcement himself through an Instagram message to fans, thanking listeners for the love and support he has received over the years. He revealed that he would no longer be taking up new assignments as a playback vocalist, calling it the close of a fulfilling chapter.
Arijit’s journey began on the reality show Fame Gurukul in 2005, followed by his Hindi film debut with Phir Mohabbat in Murder 2 (2011). He rose to nationwide prominence with Tum Hi Ho from Aashiqui 2 (2013) and went on to become one of the most recognisable and influential voices in Indian cinema.
As reactions continue to pour in, Arijit Singh’s decision is being viewed by many within the industry not as a departure, but as a turning point—one that may reshape conversations around creativity, choice, and artistic independence in Indian music.