Legendary playback singer Alka Yagnik has provided a moving update on her health, confirming that she continues to struggle with a rare hearing disorder. In a recent exclusive interaction with NDTV ,the “Melody Queen” revealed that despite nearly two years of dedicated recovery, she is still unable to return to the recording studio or accept new singing assignments.
The health crisis began in early 2024 when Yagnik suffered a sudden, total loss of hearing after disembarking from a flight. Medical experts diagnosed the condition as rare sensory neural nerve hearing loss (SNHL), triggered by a viral attack. Speaking to NDTV, Yagnik described the journey as a “difficult phase” that has required immense patience. While music directors and composers continue to approach her with new projects, she admitted, “I am not able to do it,” prioritizing her long-term rehabilitation over professional commitments.
Amidst her personal struggle, the year 2026 brought a significant milestone for the veteran artist. Yagnik was recently conferred with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, for her decades of contribution to Indian cinema. During her NDTV interaction, she shared that her daughter, Syesha, was the first to break the news to her. Expressing her gratitude to the government, she remarked with quiet composure, “Whenever it comes, it is welcome,” though the recognition comes at a time when she remains missing from the musical stage.
Yagnik also used her platform to issue a stern warning to the younger generation and fellow colleagues regarding the “health perils” of professional music life. She strongly cautioned against the constant use of headphones and prolonged exposure to high-decibel sounds, which can lead to irreversible auditory damage. Reflecting on the current state of the industry, she expressed a hope for the return of “soulful melodies,” noting that much of today’s music has lost its melodic essence.