Singer and politician Babul Supriyo has marked his return to Hindi music after a seven-year hiatus with the release of Ankhiyaan, a collaboration with singer Shaan. Expressing happiness over his comeback, Supriyo said music remains his “first love.” He shared that splitting his time between Mumbai and Kolkata has now made it easier to pursue singing. During his earlier tenure in Delhi, however, he said he was not permitted to actively perform or go on tours. He credited West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee for giving him the liberty to balance music and politics.

Reflecting on his long break from playback singing, Supriyo clarified that the hiatus was not voluntary. His last Hindi song before the gap was Sarphiri from Imtiaz Ali’s Laila Majnu. He claimed that while serving as a Union Minister, he was not allowed to continue performing publicly. According to him, even when he delivered speeches at formal platforms, television coverage often focused on him singing instead. He felt that this portrayal diluted his political image and reduced his contributions to entertainment value.

Supriyo drew comparisons with other politicians who continued parallel careers in entertainment. He cited Navjot Singh Sidhu, whose television appearances were permitted during his political tenure. In contrast, Supriyo said he had to follow directives that restricted his musical engagements. He stated that former Prime Minister Narendra Modi believed performing might dilute his ministerial responsibilities. On the other hand, he described Mamata Banerjee as someone who actively promotes music and cultural expression.

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The singer also revealed that he once resigned in 2017 over the restrictions placed on his singing career. He said his resignation, submitted through a handwritten letter, was not accepted. Supriyo added that a cancelled American tour during that period led to financial losses as well. Despite enjoying decision-making in politics, he maintained that music remains his true passion. He emphasised that he is not driven by power and prefers to stay away from political hostility.

Calling his return “Babul 2.0,” Supriyo said he now hopes to integrate music more meaningfully into his political journey. He described politics as “vitriolic” but believes art can bring balance and positivity. With Ankhiyaan, he aims to reconnect with audiences who admired him as a playback singer. The collaboration with Shaan, whom he praised as a talented composer, marks a fresh chapter in his artistic life. Supriyo said he looks forward to exploring more musical projects while continuing his public responsibilities.

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