In a display of participatory democracy, Arijit Singh—India’s current leading male vocalist—alongside his wife Koel Roy, made their way on Tuesday to a Murshidabad polling station during the third phase of the highly-anticipated 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Eminently recognized for his soulful track ‘Chaleya,’ Singh donned a simple tee and pants, embracing an everyman persona as the couple navigated the confines of a narrow alley on their humble scooty.
Amidst the hush of a regular day, the ordinary was punctuated by the presence of the celebrity couple, who calmly queued up, staying patient for their turn to engage in the civic process. Their presence did not go unnoticed as local admirers discreetly traced their every step, silently documenting what seemed, at that moment, more than a mere electoral exercise.
After casting his vote, Arijit Singh, with a sense of fulfillment, brandished his ink-stained index finger—a silent yet profound testament to his participation in the democratic process. It was an affirmation not only of his own involvement but a subtle reminder of the duty that rests on the shoulders of every citizen in the world’s largest democracy.
The day’s excitement wasn’t confined to the star’s appearance, as polling was simultaneously taking place across four tantalizing constituencies within West Bengal—Murshidabad, Jangipur, Maldaha Uttar, and Maldaha Dakshin. In a show of the region’s commitment to the electoral process, West Bengal reported a staggering 73.96 percent voter turnout according to the Election Commission of India, leading the pack among states.
This heightened participation carries enormous stakes for the political contenders, considering West Bengal’s considerable representation of 42 MPs in the Lok Sabha. The currents of change and continuity are at play, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) aiming to extend its reach following a significant performance in 2019, and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) striving to retain its stronghold. With the hearts and minds of West Bengal at the crux of their efforts, both parties eagerly await the scheduled June 4 vote count.
Turning the lens back to Arijit Singh, the maestro carved a niche in the industry initially through the talent show Fame Gurukul in 2005. His breakthrough came with the film Murder 2’s “Phir Mohabbat,” recorded in 2009 but finding its audience two years later. That same pivotal year, he lent his voice to a string of successful tracks including “Raabta” from Agent Vinod, “Uska Hi Banana” from 1920: Evil Returns, and “Duaa” from Shanghai.
Singh’s musical domain is a vast mosaic, blending within itself genres that invite romance, introspection, and vigor in equal measure. He has emerged as a versatile playback singer, complementing a multitude of Bollywood soundtracks with his distinctive voice. Adding yet another feather to his cap, he has recently infused his melodic touch to actor Sonu Sood’s directorial debut, ‘Fateh,’ further cementing his stature within the industry.
As the nation watches the pulse of West Bengal amidst these crucial elections, figures like Arijit Singh underscore the power of influence, where a simple act of voting is transformed into a statement of civic pride and responsibility for all to emulate. With every recorded song, every drama-laden contest, and every inked finger, the narrative of India’s robust democracy continues to compose its grand symphony. (With inputs from Agencies)
