Arijit Singh makes surprise appearance at Anoushka Shankar's Kolkata concert, posts FIRST update after playback exit
Kolkata, February 10
Playback singer Arijit Singh returned to the stage in Kolkata for his first live show after announcing that he was stepping away from playback singing.
The moment was special for fans as the 'Tum Hi Ho' singer joined sitarist Anoushka Shankar on stage for a joint performance.
The duo left their fans enthralled with their jugalbandi. Several videos from the show have been going viral ever since the two performed on stage.
Soon after the concert, Arijit shared his first social media post since announcing he would not take on new playback work. Taking to his Instagram Story, the singer thanked Anoushka Shankar and spoke about how much he enjoyed performing with her.
"Thank you, Anoushka Shankar, for having me on stage last night in Kolkata. I've always adored your music; it listens, it speaks, it stays. Playing alongside you is always a beautiful experience, and one I look forward to every time. Grateful for the music, the moments, and the generosity you bring to every note. Special thanks to @bickramghoshofficial," Arijit wrote.
Reacting to Arijit's note, Anoushka Shankar replied, "Humbled beyond belief, @arijitsingh."
Arijit Singh shocked his fans last month when he announced he would no longer take on new assignments as a playback singer, bringing an end to a "wonderful" journey.
In a message shared with his fans on Instagram, Arijit expressed gratitude for the love he had received over the years. "Hello, Happy New Year to all. 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," he wrote in his post.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a huge fan, I respect his decision but it's a massive loss for Bollywood. Who will fill that void? His voice defined an era. Still, happy to see him doing what he loves on his own terms. The jugalbandi must have been epic!
This is the real Arijit. Free from the commercial pressures of playback, he can explore pure music like this. More power to him! Kolkata is lucky to have witnessed this.
While I admire his artistry, I do feel a bit let down as a fan. His playback songs are the soundtrack to so many of our lives. I hope this "exit" isn't permanent and he reconsiders for special projects. The industry needs him.
Genius recognizes genius. Anoushka Shankar is a legend and for her to call herself "humbled" says everything about Arijit's caliber. This is Indian classical and contemporary music at its finest. Jai Ho! 🙏
Saw the viral videos! The energy was something else. This is the kind of cultural event that makes me proud. Two masters from different genres creating magic together. Hope they do a full tour!
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