‘Composers approach me, but I can’t sing’: Alka Yagnik on health setback

Veteran playback singer Alka Yagnik has said she continues to struggle with a rare hearing disorder, months after first revealing her condition in 2024.

In a recent interview with NDTV, the singer said she remains unable to take on new projects due to the illness. “I still suffer,” she said, adding, “Composers approach me now and then. But I am not able to do it.”

Yagnik, one of Bollywood’s most prolific voices since the 1990s, has recorded over 22,000 songs across languages. A two-time National Film Award winner, she was also honoured with the Padma Bhushan for her contribution to Indian music.

Image

Her last major project was Amar Singh Chamkila, after which her professional output slowed significantly.

The singer first disclosed her condition in June 2024 through a detailed Instagram post, describing a sudden loss of hearing following a flight. “A few weeks ago, as I walked out of a flight, I suddenly felt I was not able to hear anything,” she wrote.

She later confirmed that doctors had diagnosed her with “a rare sensory neural nerve hearing loss, due to a viral attack.”

Image

Describing the experience as a “major setback”, Yagnik said the condition had taken her by surprise and required time to process. She also used the moment to caution younger artistes about prolonged exposure to loud sound.

“For my fans and young colleagues, I would add a word of caution regarding exposure to very loud music and headphones,” she wrote, hinting at the long-term health risks associated with the profession.

Despite the setback, the singer expressed hope of returning to work. “With all your love and support, I am hoping to recalibrate my life and come back to you soon,” she added.

For now, however, one of South Asia’s most recognisable playback voices remains largely absent from new recordings, navigating a condition that has directly impacted her ability to perform.