Following Arijit Singh’s announcement that he is stepping away from playback singing, singer and Indian Idol 1 winner Abhijeet Sawant has voiced concerns about how playback singers are treated in the Indian film industry, particularly in terms of payment and long-term financial security. ‘Prem Rang Sanedo’ Music Video: Abhijeet Sawant’s First Gujarati Track With Marathi Touch Becomes Navratri 2025 Favourite – WATCH.

Abhijeet Sawant on Singer Pay Disparity

During a recent appearance on Harshall Kamat’s podcast Kya Dekhti Public, Sawant shared candid views on music, fame, and industry dynamics. Reflecting on the financial structure, he said, “People don’t want the singers to become bigger than the film itself. That’s why they are paid a certain amount.” Sawant pointed out that even when films earn several crores, singers often receive a one-time fee without any share in the long-term profits.

Abhijeet Sawant on Royalties Crisis

Addressing the issue of royalties, Sawant highlighted the contrast between India and Western music markets. “Musicians still don’t receive royalties for film music,” he said, citing composer Biddu Appaiah’s earnings from international projects. “We don’t even get enough money to sustain our livelihood.” He added that the system continues because singers often accept low payments in exchange for visibility. “If we don’t do it, someone else will. We get exploited a lot,” Sawant noted. Arijit Singh Retires From Playback Singing: 5 Popular Non-Hindi Songs of Versatile Singer You Must Hear.

Shared Reality Show Roots With Arijit Singh

Sawant won the first season of Indian Idol in 2005, the same year Arijit Singh appeared as a contestant on Fame Gurukul. While their careers took different paths, both emerged from the reality TV circuit into mainstream music.

Watch Abhijeet Sawant's Full Interview Here:

Arijit Singh Steps Away From Playback Singing

Arijit Singh’s announcement on January 27 about retiring from playback singing surprised fans and colleagues alike. Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj was among those who publicly urged him to reconsider. Arijit clarified that he will continue working on independent music. The singer rose to prominence with Tum Hi Ho from Aashiqui 2 (2013), followed by several hit songs that defined modern Bollywood romance. Arijit Singh Retires From Playback Singing - Can You Guess His Last Playback Song?

Arijit Singh Focuses on Independent Music

Despite stepping away from film playback, Arijit has indicated he will remain active creatively. A four-time Grammy Award winner, he launched his independent label, Oriyon Music, in July 2020. His continued commitment to independent projects has offered reassurance to fans awaiting new music outside the film industry.

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