Alka Yagnik Reveals Diagnosis of Rare Hearing Loss

Mumbai: Renowned Bollywood playback singer Alka Yagnik, who dominated the music industry in the 90s with her melodious voice, has revealed that she is battling a rare sensorineural nerve hearing loss. The singer shared this unexpected health update in a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday, explaining her recent absence from the public eye and seeking support from her fans and well-wishers.

Sudden Viral Attack

Alka Yagnik, known for her iconic songs like “Pardesi Pardesi” and “Taal Se Taal Mila,” described her diagnosis as a result of a sudden viral attack. She recounted the harrowing experience of losing her hearing after a flight, saying, “A few weeks ago, as I walked out of a flight, I suddenly felt I was not able to hear anything. Having mustered some courage in the weeks following the episode, I want to break my silence now for all my friends and well-wishers who have been asking me why I’m missing in action. It has been diagnosed by my docs as a rare sensorineural nerve hearing loss, due to a viral attack…this sudden, major setback has caught me completely unaware.”

A Plea for Prayers

In her message, Alka Yagnik also requested prayers from her supporters, emphasizing the emotional and physical challenges she is facing. “As I attempt to come to terms with it please keep me in your prayers,” she wrote, highlighting the gravity of her condition and her need for collective strength during this difficult time.

Caution Against Loud Music

Beyond sharing her personal ordeal, Yagnik used her platform to warn against the dangers of exposure to loud music and frequent use of headphones. She expressed a desire to raise awareness about the health risks associated with her profession. “For my fans and young colleagues, I would add a word of caution regarding exposure to very loud music and headphones. One day, I wish to share the health perils of my professional life,” she stated, underlining the long-term impacts that high-decibel sound can have on hearing health.

Hope for Recovery

Despite the setback, Alka Yagnik remains hopeful about her recovery and return to music. “With all your love and support, I am hoping to recalibrate my life and, come back to you soon. Your support and understanding will mean the world to me in this critical hour,” she concluded, expressing her determination to overcome this challenge with the support of her fans.

Reflections on Playback Singing

Alka Yagnik’s illustrious career has spanned decades, with her voice becoming synonymous with many Bollywood hits. In a 2017 interview with ANI, she reflected on the challenges of playback singing, saying, “You are singing for a character and your song should make it easy for the actor to emote and shouldn’t make it difficult for them. It is also a challenge for a playback singer to adapt to the different style of each composer. But then having achieved that, nothing compares to the happiness of a composer telling you that your singing perfectly adapts to their styles.”

Alka Yagnik’s revelation has cast a spotlight on the hidden health challenges faced by artists in the music industry. Her courage in sharing her story and cautioning others serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of hearing health. As fans and colleagues rally around her, there is a collective hope that this beloved singer will overcome her condition and continue to enchant audiences with her voice.