Mumbai, Feb 27 : Music director Ismail Darbar has reacted to Arijit Singh’s announcement that he will no longer take up new playback assignments, describing the decision as both courageous and intelligent.
Around two months ago, Arijit shared a message on Instagram stating that he would not accept any fresh projects as a playback vocalist, effectively drawing a curtain on a defining phase of his career. Thanking listeners for their unwavering support, he termed the journey “wonderful” and expressed gratitude for the love he received over the years.
In a recent podcast conversation, Darbar admitted he felt a personal sense of regret for never having collaborated with the singer. He said he had hoped to work with Arijit on a project that would present him in a different musical light. Despite that disappointment, Darbar emphasised that the choice to step back was entirely the singer’s own and deserved respect.
Calling the move bold, Darbar noted that walking away from a steady stream of playback work is not easy, especially given the financial security it offers. He also pointed to the evolving dynamics of the music industry, suggesting that artists today must think strategically about ownership, revenue and long-term positioning in an era shaped by social media and powerful record labels.
According to the composer, Arijit’s decision reflects both artistic independence and business acumen. He added that the singer’s stature in the industry stems from personal dedication and talent rather than institutional backing.
While acknowledging that a collaboration may now be unlikely, Darbar said he would still invite Arijit to record “one last song” with him if the opportunity arose, underscoring his admiration for the singer’s craft and clarity of thought.