Amaal Mallik reveals reason behind Arijit's retirement from playback singing

Music fans in India and around the world had recently assumed that Arijit Singh had stepped away from playback singing and was unlikely to return anytime soon. But his involvement in Awarapan 2 has changed that perception.

Music composer Amaal Mallik has now explained how Arijit became part of the project, stressing that the singer's return was not driven by pressure from anyone.

Amaal said the song Yeh Awarapan was not an old track that had been recorded earlier and was simply waiting for release. Instead, he had been singing the song himself for nearly a year before Arijit heard it.

Speaking with Pinkvilla, Amaal said there was no pressure on Arijit and that the singer had made his own decision about returning to playback singing.

He explained that he and Arijit often share music with each other. Amaal said he usually sends Arijit five or six songs, and if the singer likes one, they work on it together for a film.

According to Amaal, Arijit was initially not convinced that he should record Yeh Awarapan. The singer felt that Amaal had already sung the song well and questioned why he needed to record his own version.

However, Amaal told him that he specifically wanted Arijit to sing the song. Arijit eventually agreed and recorded it a few months ago.

Amaal said Arijit made a genuine effort while recording the song. He described the singer as a rare talent because of his ability, dedication and willingness to step away from film music when he chooses to.

Amaal also said Arijit's return should not be viewed as a final appearance in playback singing. If Arijit likes another song in the future, he may decide to sing it, and Amaal said he would be happy to work with him again.

He also noted that Arijit has not completely withdrawn from film music.

Awarapan 2, starring Emraan Hashmi, Disha Patani and Shabana Azmi, is scheduled to release on August 14.