Arijit Singh: The Voice of a Generation

 Arijit Singh, often referred to as the "King of Playback Singing," is one of the most celebrated singers in Indian cinema. Known for his soulful voice and unmatched versatility, Arijit has become a household name through hits like “Tum Hi Ho” and “Channa Mereya.” His journey from a small town to the pinnacle of Bollywood's music industry is a tale of passion, perseverance, and humility, inspiring millions around the world.

Start: A Passion for Music

Born on April 25, 1987, in Jiaganj, Murshidabad, West Bengal, Arijit Singh grew up in a family that cherished music. His grandmother was a classical singer, and his mother played tabla, which cultivated his interest in music from an early age.

Arijit began formal training in classical music under the guidance of Rajendra Prasad Hazari, while also learning tabla and Rabindra Sangeet. Encouraged by his family, he decided to pursue music as a career, understanding that the path would be challenging but fulfilling.

His big break came when he participated in the reality TV show “Fame Gurukul” in 2005. Though he didn’t win, it gave him the exposure and connections he needed to enter the competitive music industry.

Struggle: The Long Road to Recognition

Arijit’s journey to stardom wasn’t smooth. After “Fame Gurukul,” he struggled to find his footing in the industry. Recognizing his potential, filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali gave him an opportunity to sing a song for the movie Saawariya, but the song was ultimately shelved.

In the years that followed, Arijit worked behind the scenes as a music programmer and assistant to composers like Pritam, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, and Vishal-Shekhar. While this gave him valuable experience, it didn’t bring him the recognition he desired. Financial instability and lack of opportunities made him question his decision to pursue music.

In 2010, he participated in another reality show, “10 Ke 10 Le Gaye Dil,” which he won. However, mainstream success still eluded him, as the Bollywood music industry was dominated by established singers.

Success: The Voice of Bollywood

Arijit’s breakthrough came in 2013 with the song “Tum Hi Ho” from the movie Aashiqui 2. The song became an instant sensation, catapulting him to stardom and earning him a Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer.

Following this, Arijit delivered a series of chartbusters, including “Kabira” (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani), “Raabta” (Agent Vinod), “Gerua” (Dilwale), and “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (Ae Dil Hai Mushkil). His ability to convey deep emotions through his voice made him a favorite among composers and audiences alike.

Arijit’s versatility allowed him to experiment with various genres, from romantic ballads like “Janam Janam” to peppy numbers like “Nashe Si Chadh Gayi.” He became the go-to playback singer for every leading Bollywood actor, and his voice defined an era of Indian cinema.

His collaborations with top composers like Pritam, A.R. Rahman, Amit Trivedi, and Vishal-Shekhar solidified his reputation as a master vocalist. Arijit’s live performances also became highly sought-after, showcasing his ability to connect with audiences on a personal level.

Despite achieving immense fame, Arijit remained grounded and focused on his craft, often shying away from the limelight.

Lessons to Learn

1. Patience and Persistence: Arijit’s journey proves that success doesn’t come overnight. Years of hard work and persistence helped him achieve his dreams.

2. Learn from Every Opportunity: Working as an assistant and music programmer gave him invaluable experience that prepared him for greater challenges.

3. Stay Grounded: Even after becoming a superstar, Arijit’s humility and dedication to his craft serve as a reminder to stay focused on what truly matters.

4. Adapt and Innovate: Arijit’s ability to sing across genres and collaborate with different artists highlights the importance of adaptability in a dynamic industry.

5. Resilience in the Face of Rejection: Despite early setbacks, Arijit never gave up on his dream, showing that rejection is often a stepping stone to success.

Conclusion

Arijit Singh’s journey from a small town in West Bengal to the pinnacle of Bollywood’s music industry is a story of grit, talent, and relentless determination. His soulful voice has not only touched millions but also redefined playback singing in Indian cinema.

Arijit’s success is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and staying true to one’s passion. For aspiring artists, his story is a beacon of hope and inspiration, proving that with dedication and resilience, any dream is achievable.