When you hear a song that tugs at your heartstrings or makes you sway with its melody, chances are it’s sung by Arijit Singh. Born on April 25, 1987, in Jiaganj, Murshidabad, West Bengal, Arijit Singh has become a household name, not just in India but globally, as one of the most celebrated playback singers, composers, and music producers in contemporary Hindi film music. His journey from a small town to sold-out stadium tours is a story of talent, perseverance, and humility that inspires millions.
Early Life and Musical Roots
Arijit was born into a musically inclined family with a Punjabi Sikh father, Kakkar Singh, and a Bengali Hindu mother, Aditi Singh. Music was part of his upbringing—his maternal aunt was trained in Indian classical music, his grandmother sang, his uncle played the tabla, and his mother was both a singer and tabla player. This rich musical environment nurtured Arijit’s talent from a young age. At three, he began training under the Hazari brothers, and by nine, he received a government scholarship to study Indian classical music.
Despite being a decent student at Raja Bijay Singh High School and later Sripat Singh College, Arijit’s heart was set on music. His parents recognized this passion and ensured he received professional training in Indian classical music, Rabindra Sangeet, and pop music. This diverse foundation allowed him to develop a versatile singing style that would later define his career.
The Journey to Stardom
Arijit’s career kicked off in 2005 when he participated in the reality show Fame Gurukul. Though he didn’t win, his talent caught the attention of industry insiders. He later won another reality show, earning a cash prize of INR 10 lakhs, which he invested in music production tools to hone his skills in singing, composing, and production.
His Bollywood debut came in 2011 with the song “Phir Mohabbat” from Murder 2, but it was “Tum Hi Ho” from Aashiqui 2 (2013) that catapulted him to fame. The soulful ballad earned him his first Filmfare Award for Best Male Playback Singer and became an anthem for love-struck fans. Since then, Arijit has delivered countless hits, including “Channa Mereya” (Ae Dil Hai Mushkil), “Kesariya” (Brahmāstra), “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil,” and “Kabira” (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani), solidifying his status as the “King of Playback Singing.”
Achievements and Global Impact
Arijit’s accolades speak volumes about his talent. He has won two National Film Awards for “Binte Dil” (Padmaavat, 2018) and “Kesariya” (Brahmāstra, 2022), along with seven Filmfare Awards. In 2025, he was conferred the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, recognizing his contribution to music.
His global reach is equally impressive. Spotify named him the most-streamed Indian artist for five consecutive years (2020–2024), and as of April 2025, he is the most-followed artist globally on the platform, with over 147 million followers. His collaboration with Ed Sheeran on the single “Sapphire” (2025) blended Western pop with Indian classical influences, showcasing his ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
What Sets Arijit Apart?
Arijit’s versatility is his superpower. His deep understanding of music—spanning Indian classical, Western pop, and instruments like the tabla, guitar, and piano—allows him to sing across genres effortlessly. Whether it’s the heart-wrenching “Tum Hi Ho” or the upbeat “Nashe Si Chadh Gayi” (Befikre), Arijit brings emotional depth and authenticity to every track.
His humility also sets him apart. Despite his stardom, Arijit remains grounded, often seen traveling by public transport and shying away from flashy displays of wealth. A viral moment from his 2024 London concert, where he consoled a heartbroken fan during his performance of “Sajni” (Laapataa Ladies), highlighted his empathy and connection with fans.
Beyond Singing: A Creative Force
Arijit is more than a playback singer. He launched his record label, Oriyon Music, in 2020, curating soulful tracks and collaborating with top composers. He’s also ventured into filmmaking, directing a Bengali feature film, Bhalobasar Rojnamcha (2015), which comprises seven short films and has been showcased at international film festivals.
Live Performances: A Magical Experience
Arijit’s concerts are nothing short of magical. From India to London, Dubai, and Nepal, his live performances captivate audiences with his soulful voice and magnetic stage presence. Fans describe his shows as emotional rollercoasters, with moments of tears, dance, and pure joy. His 2024 India Tour and upcoming concerts in 2025–2026 promise to deliver unforgettable experiences.
Lessons from Arijit’s Journey
Arijit’s rise to fame offers valuable lessons for aspiring musicians:
- Versatility: Mastering multiple genres and instruments opens doors to diverse opportunities.
- Perseverance: Despite early setbacks, Arijit never gave up, using failures as stepping stones.
- Humility: Staying grounded keeps you connected to your art and audience.
- Continuous Learning: His investment in music production tools and training reflects a commitment to growth.
Stay Updated on Arijit Singh
To follow Arijit’s latest releases, concerts, and news, check out:
- Spotify: Stream his music and discover new songs.
- YouTube (Oriyon Music): Explore his official channel for curated tracks and videos.