Aamir Khan on Arijit Singh rejecting his comeback request, ‘I did try my best but…’

In a move that stunned fans across the country, Arijit Singh - the voice that defined a decade of Hindi film music - quietly stepped away from playback singing. The singer announced that he wishes to channel his artistry toward the deeper, more demanding world of Indian classical music, choosing riyaaz over recording studios and tradition over trend. The decision triggered disbelief among listeners and heartfelt reactions across the industry.

Must Read: Arijit Singh reveals reasons behind retirement from playback singing, says ‘Got bored and…’

A Journey to Bengal: Aamir Khan’s Personal Appeal

Soon after Arijit’s announcement, Aamir Khan made an intimate visit to the singer’s Jiaganj residence in Murshidabad, West Bengal. Instead of a brief courtesy call, the meeting stretched across four days filled with conversations, music, and memories.

Aamir Khan Productions later shared a warm photograph of the two together, paired with the message: "Thank you, Arijit, for lending your voice to our film Ek Din. The four days spent with you, your family, and your team felt magical." (sic)

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The visit sparked speculation that Aamir was trying to convince Arijit to reconsider his retirement.

“I Did Try My Best”: Aamir Breaks His Silence

Putting an end to the speculation, Aamir Khan clarified that his visit was never meant to pressure Arijit Singh into returning to playback singing.

In a conversation with Subhash K Jha, the actor dismissed the rumours and explained that the trip served an entirely different purpose. 

He stated, “I wasn’t there to convince Arijit not to quit singing for films.” 

However, Aamir admitted that he did gently bring up the subject and attempted to discuss the decision with the singer. Despite his efforts, he sensed Arijit’s resolve was unwavering.

Reflecting on the moment, Aamir said, “Though I did try my best to persuade him to reconsider, it was in vain. He seems to have made up his mind.”

Aamir Khan travelled to Murshidabad for work related to his film Ek Din, starring his son Junaid Khan. The visit focused on the rendering and recording of the film’s songs.

As he explained, “I was there for his rendering of the Ek Din songs.”

Since the project had been committed to earlier, Aamir persuaded Arijit Singh to lend his voice to the soundtrack. The singer agreed to sing for Junaid’s character and honour the promise made before announcing his retirement.

Aamir shared, “I convinced him to sing for my sake. He is singing for Junaid’s character. Since Ek Din was an earlier commitment, he wanted to complete it.”

The film features five tracks, all of them sung by Arijit.

A Collaboration Etched in Melody

Over the years, Arijit’s voice has become inseparable from several Aamir Khan films. In 2016, he delivered the emotional "Naina" for Dangal.

He later returned with "Tere Hawaale" and "Phir Na Aisi Raat Aayegi" for Laal Singh Chaddha (2022).

Most recently, he lent his voice to "Oh Sajni Re" for Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies.

Their artistic association continues with Ek Din, an upcoming romantic drama starring Junaid Khan and Sai Pallavi.

From Playback to Pure Classical

Even as the film world processed his exit, Arijit surprised audiences with an appearance that revealed where his heart now lies. At Anoushka Shankar’s Kolkata concert at Netaji Indoor Stadium, he joined the sitar maestro on stage, immersing himself in classical expression.

There were no cinematic flourishes - just raw, disciplined music. The unexpected performance quickly went viral.

Probably the first time that one heard #ArijitSingh after his retirement from bollywood playback !

When two legends from Bengal enthralled us in Kolkata

The audience was stunned when #anoushkashankar announced her surprise guest the one and only ARIJIT SINGH !! pic.twitter.com/fyFX7CCRRn

— Suparna (@shupornaa) February 8, 2026

Agar ye retirement plan tha to definitely ye master plan tha 👏👏#ArijitSingh you are amazing ❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/JPC9HZ9ZFf

— zindagi 🦋✨ (@brownladyy_01) February 9, 2026

Later, Arijit admitted feeling nervous performing in a space that values restraint and depth over spectacle - a revealing glimpse into the humility that continues to define him.

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The Official Goodbye

On January 27, Arijit Singh formally confirmed his retirement from playback singing, while assuring fans he would honour all previously committed projects.

For millions, it marks the end of an era. For Arijit, it is simply the beginning of a quieter, more rooted musical chapter.