Our Bureau
Mumbai
Bollywood’s reigning playback king Arijit Singh stunned the industry last week by announcing his retirement from film singing, igniting a broader conversation about creative exhaustion and the relentless grind of showbiz. In a heartfelt Instagram post, the 38‑year‑old crooner cited “creative reasons” and a desire for personal growth, clarifying that his musical journey continues beyond cinema. Fans flooded social media with tributes, mourning the loss of his chart‑topping voice while respecting his need for space.
Veteran actor Pankaj Tripathi has emerged as a vocal supporter, defending Singh’s move. “We are artists, not factory products,” Tripathi declared, echoing his advocacy for a “slow life” after his own packed schedule. He drew parallels to comedian Zakir Khan’s recent break for health reasons, stressing that breaks enable reinvention. “You need a break to reinvent yourself,” he said.
Industry insiders note rising burnout, with producers demanding rapid output. Singh’s exit, following 15+ years of hits like “Tum Hi Ho”, highlights mental health awareness, a theme Tripathi champions in projects like the YouTube series Perfect Family. As labels grapple with his absence, the debate centers on balancing artistry with commercial pressures, signaling a shift toward sustainable careers.
