Popular playback singer Alka Yagnik revealed that she has been diagnosed with a rare sensory nerve hearing loss due to a viral infection. Taking to social media on Monday, June 17, the singer said that she was diagnosed shortly after she walked out of a flight and could not hear anything. Alka said, “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.” 

Speaking about how the diagnosis caught her “completely unaware”, Alka said, “As I attempt to come to terms with it, please keep me in your prayers. 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.” 

Asking for the support of her fans, well-wishers and friends, Alka said, “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.” 

Responding to Alka’s post, singer Chinmayi Sripada wrote on X, “This is such a shock for a singer to go through. I wish her complete healing and a full recovery with all my heart.” 

Alka Yagnik has worked primarily in the Hindi film industry and is considered to be one of the most prominent singers of the 1990s. With a career spanning over two decades, Alka has won several awards for her songs including two National Awards, seven Filmfare Awards for Best Playback Singer Female, and two Bengal Film Journalists’ Association Awards.