Arijit Singh Returns for FIRST Live Performance After Playback Exit

Arijit Singh Marks His FIRST Live Performance Following Retirement From Playback Singing

When renowned singer Arijit Singh surprised fans with an emotional return to live performance, it marked a landmark moment in his musical journey — one that came just days after he announced his retirement from playback singing in Bollywood.

On February 8, 2026, audiences at Kolkata’s Netaji Indoor Stadium were treated to a memorable evening as Arijit stepped onto the stage for the first time since his retirement announcement. Rather than a solo concert, this appearance came as a special collaboration with internationally acclaimed sitar maestro Anoushka Shankar and celebrated percussionist Bickram Ghosh.

A Joyous Return to the Stage

The performance was unexpected for many fans, as Arijit had publicly declared on January 27, 2026, that he would no longer take on new playback singing assignments for films — effectively stepping back from a defining element of his career.

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Yet his presence in Kolkata showed that while he may be letting go of playback singing, his connection with live music and his audience remains strong. Videos and photos soon circulated on social media showing Arijit’s warm reception by the crowd, cheering loudly as he took the mic.

An Emotional Performance With Musical Legends

Anoushka Shankar introduced Arijit to the stage, much to the delight of the audience. The two artists, along with Bickram Ghosh, performed Maya Bhora Raati — a classic Bengali composition originally sung by Lakshmi Shankar and composed by the late sitar legend Pandit Ravi Shankar.

This blend of vocal and classical string accompaniment offered an evocative fusion of contemporary and traditional musical styles, captivating attendees and demonstrating Arijit’s versatility beyond film playback.

Addressing the audience, Arijit admitted he felt nervous — a candid and relatable moment that resonated with fans. “I am very nervous. Thank you for having me,” he said before launching into the set.

What This Performance Signifies

For years, Arijit Singh has been synonymous with Bollywood’s most iconic songs, including chart-toppers like “Tum Hi Ho” and “Kesariya” that defined entire eras of cinematic music. His decision to retire from playback singing sparked widespread discussion among fans and peers alike, with some offering support and others expressing concern over such a significant shift.

Yet Arijit’s return to live performance suggests that this retirement may not be an end to music participation, but rather a transition to new creative pathways. Instead of singing primarily for films, he appears interested in exploring performances that allow personal expression and direct engagement with audiences.

A Celebration of Music Beyond Playback

The collaboration with Anoushka Shankar underscores how Arijit is embracing diverse musical landscapes. Sitting alongside a sitar virtuoso points to an appreciation for classical and experimental infusion into his music, a direction that many artists take when they move beyond formulaic playback roles.

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Fans’ reactions on social media reflected a mix of joy and nostalgia as videos from the event went viral, with many sharing how much they had missed his live presence.

What Fans Are Saying

Comments online ranged from emotional appreciation to excitement for what’s next. Several fans described the performance as “pure talent” and pointed to the soulful collaboration between Arijit and Anoushka.

Others noted how the live setting, coupled with the classical instrumentation, gave the evening a uniquely intimate feel — different from the grand soundtracks of cinema, yet deeply moving in its own right.

What Lies Ahead for Arijit Singh

With this first live performance behind him, speculation is widespread about Arijit’s next musical moves. Some believe he may focus more on independent music, live collaborations, and special performances that allow him greater artistic freedom.

It’s also possible that he will continue to explore cross-genre projects and collaborations with artists from various musical traditions, reflecting a personal evolution that expands beyond the boundaries of film music.

Whatever path he takes, this FIRST live performance following retirement from playback singing marks a poignant milestone in the career of one of India’s most beloved vocalists. It serves both as a farewell to one chapter and a welcoming note to the next, reminding fans that music — whether in cinema or on stage — continues to connect artists and listeners in powerful ways.

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