Our Bureau
Mumbai
Global pop icon Ed Sheeran has set the internet abuzz with the release of his latest single, “Sapphire,” a vivid celebration of India’s culture and musical diversity. The song, part of Sheeran’s upcoming eighth studio album Play, is already being hailed as a unique cross-cultural collaboration, featuring Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and playback legend Arijit Singh.
The music video for “Sapphire” is a visual feast, capturing Sheeran’s journey through some of India’s most iconic locales. From the bustling streets of Kolkata to the majestic sets of Baahubali in Hyderabad, Sheeran immerses himself in the sights, sounds, and spirit of the country. The video’s first-person perspective invites viewers to join Sheeran as he rides local buses, dances in lively cafés, and sails across the Hooghly River, offering an intimate look at his exploration of Indian culture.
A standout moment in the song is Arijit Singh’s soulful Punjabi verse, which adds a rich layer to the track’s blend of Western and Punjabi musical elements. Singh not only lent his voice but also helped Sheeran craft the Punjabi lyrics, a collaboration that surprised and delighted fans. The video’s most talked-about cameo, however, is Shah Rukh Khan, who joins Sheeran in a playful and memorable duet, making it one of the year’s most celebrated musical moments.
“Sapphire” is the third single released ahead of Play, following “Azizam,” a tribute to Persian culture, and “Old Phone,” an emotionally charged track about nostalgia and connection. Each song on the album reflects Sheeran’s commitment to personal storytelling and cultural appreciation, with “Sapphire” standing out as a heartfelt love letter to India.
