Arijit Singh, the voice behind countless Bollywood hits, recently surprised fans by announcing his retirement from playback singing. In a statement released late Tuesday evening, the beloved singer stated that he would no longer be accepting new projects, marking the end of an era in Bollywood music. However, breaking the hearts of some and thrilling others, the singer made a surprising return to the stage for a live performance that has since gone viral.

Just days after announcing his retirement, Arijit Singh took to the stage, captivating audiences with his soulful voice. The performance, which took place on February 4th, 2026, was part of a private concert in Mumbai. Videos circulating online show Singh performing some of his most iconic songs, including "Tum Hi Ho" and "Channa Mereya".

The unexpected performance has sparked a flurry of reactions from fans and industry insiders alike. Many expressed their joy and relief at seeing Singh back on stage so soon after his retirement announcement. Some fans speculated that his retirement from playback singing might signal a shift towards live performances and independent music.

Veteran singer Udit Narayan has also expressed his admiration for Arijit, applauding the phenomenal milestones he has reached in such a short career span.

Singh's decision to retire from playback singing came as a shock to many, considering his continued popularity and demand in the Bollywood music scene. In the six years since his breakthrough with "Tum Hi Ho" from Aashiqui 2, Arijit has become one of India's most popular musical artists. He has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Sajid-Wajid and A.R. Rahman, and has won over 50 major awards. Recently, Arijit Singh's latest track, "Maatrubhumi" from Salman Khan's "Battle of Galwan" was released and received immense love.

While the reasons behind his retirement remain unclear, some sources suggest that Singh wants to focus on other aspects of his musical career, such as composing and producing his own music. He may also be looking to dedicate more time to his family and personal life.

Regardless of his reasons, Arijit Singh's contribution to the Indian music industry is undeniable. His soulful voice and emotive performances have touched the hearts of millions, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of musicians to come.

The viral video of his recent live performance serves as a reminder of his immense talent and the impact he has had on the world of music. Whether he continues to focus on live shows or explores new avenues in his career, Arijit Singh's fans will undoubtedly be eagerly awaiting his next musical endeavor. For now, fans can catch Arijit Singh on his 2026 tour, the largest such tour for any Indian artist in North America.