Arijit Singh: The Soulful Voice of Bollywood Songs
| Date of Birth : 25th April 1987 |
| Place of Birth : Jiaganj, Murshidabad, West Bengal, India |
| Father : Kakkar Singh |
| Mother : Aditi Singh |
| Spouse/Partner : Koel Roy Singh |
| Alma Mater : Raja Bijay Singh High School |
| Professions : Playback Singer |
Overview
Arijit Singh is a name that resonates with music lovers across the world. His soulful voice, melodious songs, and emotional depth have made him one of the most celebrated playback singers in India. From romantic ballads to heartbreaking melodies, he has sung a variety of songs that touch the hearts of millions. In this article by Academic Block, we will explore Arijit Singh's journey, his rise to fame, and the impact of his music on the industry and his fans.
Early Life and Background of Arijit Singh
First and foremost, Arijit Singh was born on April 25, 1987, in Jiaganj, Murshidabad, West Bengal. He belonged to a musical family, which played a significant role in shaping his career. His mother was a Bengali singer, and his maternal uncle and grandmother were also trained in Indian classical music. This early exposure to music training helped him develop a deep understanding of melody and rhythm.
His initial training in music started under Rajendra Prasad Hazari, who trained him in Indian classical singing. Moreover, he also learned tabla from Dhirendra Prasad Hazari and was trained in pop and contemporary music by Birendra Prasad Hazari.
Arijit Singh's Career Timeline
Arijit Singh's journey in the Indian music industry has been remarkable. The table below provides a structured look at his career progression, highlighting key milestones and achievements.
This structured timeline showcases Arijit Singh’s rise to fame, his impact on Bollywood music, and his consistent success over the years.
Musical Style of Arijit Singh
Arijit Singh is known for his versatile singing style, which allows him to perform across multiple genres. Over the years, he has consistently evolved as a singer, proving his ability to adapt to different musical styles. As a result, he has become a dominant figure in Bollywood music. Below is a detailed look at his musical diversity:
(i) Romantic Ballads
- Arijit is best known for his soulful romantic songs, such as "Tum Hi Ho" (Aashiqui 2) and "Agar Tum Saath Ho" (Tamasha).
- Moreover, his deep, emotional voice enhances the storytelling in love songs, making them even more touching.
(ii) Classical and Sufi Influence
- He has a strong background in Indian classical music, which is evident in songs like "Laal Ishq" (Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela).
- Additionally, he has explored Sufi music, as heard in "Mast Magan" (2 States).
(iii) Folk and Soft Melodies
- Arijit enjoys singing folk music, and his ability to add raw emotions is clearly evident in "Samjhawan" (Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania).
- Similarly, he delivers heartfelt performances in soft melodies.
(iv) Upbeat and Party Songs
- Despite being labeled a "romantic singer," he has delivered energetic tracks like "Badtameez Dil" (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani) and "Ghungroo" (War).
- Furthermore, his versatility allows him to switch effortlessly between different genres.
(v) Ghazals and Emotional Renditions
- His ghazal-style singing shines in "Gulon Mein Rang Bhare", showcasing his ability to convey deep emotions.
- Consequently, his expressive voice makes every song feel authentic and heartfelt.
In conclusion, Arijit Singh’s dynamic musical style continues to evolve, making him one of the most influential playback singers in India.
Top Hits of Arijit Singh
Arijit Singh has captivated audiences with his soulful voice and versatile singing style. Over the years, he has delivered numerous hits that have left an indelible mark on Bollywood music. Below is a curated list of some of his most memorable songs:
Arijit Singh's Personal Life and his Philanthropic Efforts
Despite being one of the biggest music stars, Arijit Singh remains humble and private about his personal life. He married Koel Roy in 2014, and they prefer to stay away from the limelight.
Apart from music, he is also involved in charitable activities. He runs an NGO that supports underprivileged children and promotes music education. This shows that he is not only a great singer but also a great humanitarian.
Awards and Achievements Received by Arijit Singh
Arijit Singh, renowned for his soulful voice and versatility, has garnered numerous accolades throughout his illustrious career. Here is a concise overview of his significant awards and achievements:
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Filmfare Awards : Arijit has won the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer seven times, including a record five consecutive wins from 2016 to 2020.
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National Film Award : In 2019, he received the National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer for the song "Binte Dil" from Padmaavat.
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IIFA Awards : Arijit has secured multiple International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards, including Best Male Playback Singer for "Tum Hi Ho" in 2014 and "Raazi" in 2019.
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Zee Cine Awards : He has been honored with Zee Cine Awards, such as Best Playback Singer – Male for "Tum Hi Ho" in 2014 and "Gerua" in 2016.
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Mirchi Music Awards : Arijit has received several Mirchi Music Awards, including Song of the Year for "Dilwale" in 2016 and "Jab Harry Met Sejal" in 2018.
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Guild Awards : He won the Star Guild Award for Best Male Playback Singer for "Tum Hi Ho" in 2014.
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Screen Awards : Arijit received the Screen Award for Best Male Playback Singer for "Tum Hi Ho" in 2014.
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Stardust Awards : He was honored with the Stardust Award for Best Male Playback Singer for "Muskurane" in 2014.
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GIMA Awards : Arijit secured the Global Indian Music Academy (GIMA) Award for Best Male Playback Singer in 2014 for "Tum Hi Ho".
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Padma Shri Award : In 2021, he was conferred the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, recognizing his contributions to music.
Arijit Singh's exceptional talent and dedication have solidified his position as one of India's most celebrated playback singers.
Arijit Singh's Influence on the Music Industry
Over the years, Arijit Singh has redefined the Bollywood playback industry. His songs have set a new standard for melody and depth, and he has inspired a new generation of singers and composers. Many young artists look up to him as an icon in the music world.
Additionally, his ability to connect with emotions has made him a favorite among lyricists and music directors. Most importantly, his voice has brought life to many film soundtracks, making them unforgettable.
Impact on Contemporary Bollywood Music
Arijit Singh's influence on contemporary Bollywood music is profound. His ability to infuse depth and emotion into every note has set a new standard for playback singing. Filmmakers and music directors often seek out Arijit for songs that require not just a singer but a storyteller who can convey the intricacies of human emotions through music.
In an industry that witnesses constant evolution in musical styles, Arijit's ability to adapt and excel across genres has made him an essential element of the Bollywood music landscape. His impact is not only measured in the commercial success of his songs but also in the emotional connect they establish with listeners.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Arijit Singh is known for keeping his personal life private. He married his childhood friend Koel Roy in 2014, and the couple has two children. Despite his busy schedule, Arijit has been actively involved in philanthropic activities. He has supported various charitable causes, including initiatives related to education and healthcare.
Web Resources on Arijit Singh
1. Official Facebook Page of Arijit Singh.
2. Wikipedia page on Arijit Singh.
3. Official YouTube Channel of Arijit Singh.
4. Spotify Account on Arijit Singh.
5. Apple Music Account on Arijit Singh.
6. Official Instagram Page of Arijit Singh.
7. Official Twitter Account of Arijit Singh.
Final Words
To summarize, Arijit Singh is more than just a playback singer; he is an emotion for millions of music lovers. His soulful voice, versatile singing, and deep connection with lyrics have made him one of the greatest Indian singers of all time.
With every song, he continues to touch hearts and create everlasting melodies. His journey from a small-town boy to an internationally recognized artist is truly inspiring. Without a doubt, he will keep mesmerizing audiences with his musical magic for years to come. Please provide your views in comment section to make this article better. Thanks for Reading!
This Article will answer your questions like:
Arijit Singh is an acclaimed Indian playback singer and music composer known for his soulful and melodious voice. Born on April 25, 1987, in Jiaganj, Murshidabad, West Bengal, he has become one of the most popular and versatile singers in the Indian music industry, contributing to numerous Bollywood films and music albums.
Arijit Singh is famous for his unique voice and his ability to convey deep emotions through his singing. His versatility allows him to sing in various genres, including romantic ballads, classical, and contemporary music, making him a favorite among listeners. His breakthrough came with the song "Tum Hi Ho" from the movie Aashiqui 2, which catapulted him to stardom.
Arijit Singh started his singing career in 2005 when he participated in the reality show "Fame Gurukul," where he finished in sixth place. Despite not winning, he gained significant attention and later worked as a music programmer and assistant to music directors before establishing himself as a leading playback singer in the Indian film industry.
Arijit Singh specializes in a wide range of music genres, including Bollywood, classical, sufi, and contemporary music. His ability to adapt to different styles and genres has made him one of the most versatile singers in the Indian music industry, and his romantic ballads are particularly beloved by fans.
Arijit Singh's most popular songs include "Tum Hi Ho" from Aashiqui 2, "Channa Mereya" from Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, "Raabta" from Agent Vinod, "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" title track, "Gerua" from Dilwale, "Kabira" from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, "Sooraj Dooba Hain" from Roy, "Zaalima" from Raees, and "Phir Le Aya Dil" from Barfi, among many others.
The top 10 songs of Arijit Singh include "Tum Hi Ho," "Channa Mereya," "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil," "Raabta," "Gerua," "Kabira," "Sooraj Dooba Hain," "Zaalima," "Phir Le Aya Dil," and "Muskurane." These songs showcase his vocal versatility and have been critically acclaimed and loved by audiences worldwide.
Arijit Singh has won numerous awards, including several Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer for songs like "Tum Hi Ho," "Sooraj Dooba Hain," and "Channa Mereya." He has also received National Film Awards, IIFA Awards, Zee Cine Awards, and Mirchi Music Awards, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the Indian music industry.
Arijit Singh sings in various languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Marathi, Gujarati, and Malayalam. His proficiency in multiple languages has expanded his reach and popularity across different regional music industries in India, making him a pan-Indian musical sensation.
Arijit Singh's debut Bollywood song was "Phir Mohabbat" from the movie Murder 2, released in 2011. The song was composed by Mithoon and received widespread acclaim, establishing Arijit as a promising new voice in the Indian music industry.
Arijit Singh sang "Tum Hi Ho" from the movie Aashiqui 2 for his wife, Koel Roy, at their wedding. The song is one of his most popular and romantic hits, and it holds a special place in his personal life as well as his musical career.
The conflict between Salman Khan and Arijit Singh began in 2014 during an award function where a misunderstanding led to a fallout. This resulted in Arijit's songs being removed from Salman's films. However, they have recently reconciled and collaborated on the song "Hum Aapke Bina" for the film "Sikandar."
No, Arijit Singh did not participate in "Indian Idol." He gained initial recognition as a contestant on the reality show "Fame Gurukul" in 2005, where he showcased his singing talent.
Attending an Arijit Singh concert offers a range of ticket options to suit various budgets. For instance, his 2025 Pune concert featured tickets starting at ₹999 ($12), while premium packages reached up to ₹2.43 lakh ($2,915). Similarly, in Mumbai and Delhi, ticket prices began at ₹6,500 ($78) and escalated to ₹75,000 ($900), depending on the seating and amenities. These variations highlight the diverse pricing tailored to different preferences and experiences.
Arijit Singh revealed that his original voice was not well-received, prompting him to undergo rigorous training to alter his vocal texture. He admitted to 'torturing' his vocal cords to achieve a unique sound that resonates with audiences today. This transformation involved extensive practice and dedication to his craft.
Arijit Singh was honored with the Padma Shri award in January 2025. This prestigious recognition was bestowed upon him for his significant contributions to Indian music, marking a milestone in his illustrious career.
Arijit Singh's latest song is "Hum Aapke Bina," featured in the upcoming film "Sikandar," starring Salman Khan and Rashmika Mandanna. This collaboration marks the end of a long-standing feud between Arijit and Salman.
Arijit Singh's most acclaimed song is "Tum Hi Ho" from the movie "Aashiqui 2." This track catapulted him to fame and remains one of his most beloved performances.
Arijit Singh's first marriage ended in divorce due to undisclosed personal reasons. He has maintained privacy regarding this aspect of his life, and specific details have not been publicly shared.
Quotes by Arijit Singh
“Music should be something that makes you gotta move, inside or outside.”
“Music has the power to make me feel good like nothing else does. It gives me some peace for a while. Takes me back to who I really am.”
“My journey has been quite fascinating. From a reality show contestant to a playback singer, it has been a roller coaster ride, and I have enjoyed every bit of it.”
“When I sing, I close my eyes and lose myself in the emotions of the song. That’s when I feel closest to the audience, when I can communicate my feelings through the music.”
“Music has no language. It’s a mode of expression that transcends boundaries and connects people at a deeper level.”
“I always try to keep things simple and honest. Music is about emotions and connecting with people. If you can convey the emotion, everything else falls into place.”
“The beauty of a song lies in its ability to transport you to a different place, evoke memories, and make you feel something deeply.”
“Every song has its own journey, its own emotions. As an artist, my job is to understand that journey and bring out the emotions in my rendition.”
“Success is unpredictable. You never know which song will strike a chord with the audience. It’s a beautiful uncertainty that keeps me excited about my work.”
“Lyrics are the soul of a song. They give the melody meaning and depth. As a singer, I always strive to do justice to the emotions embedded in the lyrics.”
Most famous Songs of Arijit Singh
“Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2013)
“Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2016)
“Raabta” – “Agent Vinod” (2012)
“Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2016)
“Agar Tum Saath Ho” – “Tamasha” (2015)
“Dil Diyan Gallan” – “Tiger Zinda Hai” (2017)
“Enna Sona” – “OK Jaanu” (2017)
“Zaalima” – “Raees” (2017)
“Chhod Diya” – “Baazaar” (2018)
“Pal” – “Jalebi” (2018)
Controversies revolving around Arijit Singh
Public Apology to Salman Khan: One of the most high-profile controversies involving Arijit Singh was his public apology to Bollywood superstar Salman Khan during the Star Guild Awards in 2014. Arijit had sung a song for Salman’s film “Kick,” but the track was eventually dropped from the movie. During the awards ceremony, Arijit took the opportunity to apologize to Salman Khan publicly, expressing regret for any unintentional disrespect. The incident created a buzz in the media, and fans speculated about the reasons behind the removal of the song.
Deleted Tweets Directed at Music Composer Mithoon: In 2016, Arijit Singh made headlines when he posted a series of now-deleted tweets directed at music composer Mithoon. The tweets hinted at a rift between the two and suggested that Arijit felt neglected in the music industry. However, Arijit later clarified that his account was hacked and that he did not post those tweets. The incident raised questions about the vulnerability of celebrities on social media platforms.
Controversy with T-Series: Arijit Singh had a public fallout with T-Series, one of the prominent music production companies in India. In 2017, Arijit accused T-Series head Bhushan Kumar of destroying many careers and threatening to destroy his own. The singer claimed that Kumar had promised him work but did not fulfill his commitments. The controversy played out on social media, with Arijit’s post garnering mixed reactions from fans and industry insiders.
Legal Battle with Zee Music Company: Arijit Singh found himself embroiled in a legal dispute with Zee Music Company in 2019. The music label claimed that Arijit had violated the terms of his contract by collaborating with other music labels without seeking prior permission. Arijit, in turn, accused the music company of exploiting artists and not giving them due credit. The legal battle shed light on the complex contractual relationships that artists often navigate in the music industry.
Controversy Surrounding His Statement on Reality Shows: In 2019, Arijit Singh stirred a controversy with his comments about reality shows during an event. He expressed his discontent with the format of reality shows, stating that participants sign contracts that practically give away their lives. His remarks sparked debates about the ethics and impact of reality shows on aspiring musicians and the entertainment industry.
Awards won by Arijit Singh
Filmfare Awards: Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Sooraj Dooba Hai” – “Roy” (2016), Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2017), Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Raabta” – “Agent Vinod” (2013), and Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Ae Watan” – “Raazi” (2019)
National Film Awards: National Film Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Binte Dil” – “Padmaavat” (2019)
IIFA Awards: IIFA Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), IIFA Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2017), and IIFA Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Raabta” – “Agent Vinod” (2013)
Zee Cine Awards: Zee Cine Award for Song of the Year for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), and Zee Cine Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Raabta” – “Agent Vinod” (2013)
Stardust Awards: Stardust Award for Best Playback Singer – Male for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014)
Screen Awards: Screen Award for Best Male Playback for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), and Screen Award for Best Male Playback for “Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2017)
Guild Awards: Star Guild Award for Best Male Playback Singer for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014)
Mirchi Music Awards: Mirchi Music Award for Male Vocalist of the Year for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), and Mirchi Music Award for Male Vocalist of the Year for “Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2017)
Global Indian Music Academy Awards (GIMA): GIMA Award for Best Duet for “Raabta” with Shreya Ghoshal – “Agent Vinod” (2013), GIMA Award for Best Film Song for “Tum Hi Ho” – “Aashiqui 2” (2014), and GIMA Award for Best Film Song for “Channa Mereya” – “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2017)
Facts on Arijit Singh
Early Musical Training: Arijit Singh began his musical training at a very young age under the guidance of his mother, who was a trained classical singer. His early exposure to classical music laid the foundation for his versatile vocal abilities.
Reality Show Fame: Arijit gained initial recognition through the reality show “Fame Gurukul” in 2005, although he didn’t win. His participation in the show provided him with a platform to showcase his talent to a broader audience.
Graduation in Music: Arijit Singh holds a bachelor’s degree in music from Sangeet Gurukul, a music academy in Mumbai. His formal education in music further enriched his understanding of musical nuances.
Assistant to Music Directors: Before making it big as a playback singer, Arijit worked as an assistant to various music directors. This experience behind the scenes gave him valuable insights into the music industry.
Bollywood Breakthrough with “Tum Hi Ho”: Arijit Singh shot to fame with the song “Tum Hi Ho” from the movie “Aashiqui 2” (2013). The song became a massive hit and won him several awards, including the Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer.
Prolific Discography: Arijit Singh has an extensive discography, having sung in multiple languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, and more. His diverse range spans romantic ballads, peppy dance numbers, and soulful tracks, showcasing his versatility.
Multiple Filmfare Awards: Arijit has been honored with numerous Filmfare Awards for his outstanding contributions to the world of playback singing. His wins across different categories underscore his ability to excel in various musical genres.
Versatility in Genres: Arijit Singh’s versatility is one of his defining features. He seamlessly transitions between classical, semi-classical, and contemporary genres, making him a sought-after artist for a wide range of compositions.
Global Recognition: Arijit’s popularity extends beyond India, and he has performed in concerts around the world, captivating audiences with his soul-stirring voice. His global recognition highlights the universal appeal of his music.
Composer and Music Producer: Apart from being a playback singer, Arijit Singh is also a skilled composer and music producer. His foray into composing reflects his holistic understanding of music creation.
Philanthropic Initiatives: Arijit Singh is known for his involvement in philanthropic activities. He has supported various charitable causes, including initiatives related to education and healthcare.
Private Persona: Arijit is known for keeping his personal life private. Despite his celebrity status, he prefers to stay away from the limelight when it comes to his personal affairs.
Social Media Presence: Arijit Singh is active on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter. While he maintains a relatively low profile, his posts often provide glimpses into his musical journey and personal interests.
Fan Following: Arijit Singh has a massive fan following, and his fans, often referred to as “Arijitians,” express unwavering support for his music. Social media platforms are abuzz with fan clubs dedicated to celebrating his work.
Continued Musical Exploration: Arijit Singh’s journey in the music industry continues to evolve, with him exploring new musical territories and collaborating with different composers. His commitment to artistic growth contributes to his enduring relevance in the industry.