Vishal Dadlani quits Indian Idol after six years

With six nostalgic seasons, musician and composer Vishal Dadlani has formally retired as a judge on the widely popular singing show Indian Idol. The singer, famous for his blunt remarks and strong bonding with contestants, posted an emotional farewell video and letter on Instagram, bidding goodbye to his experience on the show.

Vishal was spotted in the video with other judges Shreya Ghoshal and Badshah. Although the sound was muffled and substituted by the soulful song Time sung by Christian 21, emotions were loud and clear. Shreya could be spotted mischievously making faces alongside Vishal, while Badshah seemed to be having an emotional moment with him.

The video had a text overlay that read, "That's all from me, folks! Six consecutive seasons after that, tonight is my final show as a judge on Indian Idol. I hope the show will miss me as much as I'll miss it." He continued by thanking his fellow judges and the crew, naming Shreya, Badshah, Aditya Narayan, and a few others who've been a part of his Indian Idol ride. "That stage is pure love!" he continued.

In his caption, Vishal posted, "Alvida, yaaro. 6 seasons mein jitna mazaa kiya, uss se bhi zyada yaad aayegi." (Goodbye, friends. I'll remember this more than all the fun I had in 6 seasons). He also posted unprecedented gratitude towards the show and their team: "Haqq se zyada pyaar milaa hai, iss show ki vajah se. Eternally grateful to everyone involved."

See more: Indian Idol 15 Winner: Manasi Ghosh lifts the trophy with a whopping cash prize of Rs 25 Lakhs and a brand new car

Clarifying why he was leaving, Vishal posted, "I'm leaving the show because I can't remain rooted in Mumbai for 6 months every year. Time to get back to creating music, performing concerts, and barely ever wearing make-up! It's #VishalAndSheykhar season!! Jai ho!"

Responding to the post, host Aditya Narayan wrote, "The end of an era. Indian Idol will never be the same without you, big brother. Grateful for all the great times together. Can’t stay stuck in Mumbai.” Badshah added, 'Jaane nahi denge tumhe.' Meiyang Chang also wrote, "The show will miss you man. But I miss your music more, so here’s to kicking ass all over again"

Vishal Dadlani was a constant fixture on the judges' table from Season 10 in 2018. With Season 15 just concluding and Manasi Ghosh being declared the winner, viewers now say their goodbye to one of the show's most popular judges.

Netizens also reacted to the post, a user wrote, "Have thoroughly enjoyed your presence and charisma in the show, sir! 🙌❤️ Can't wait for banger music from you!" Another one wrote, 'You will be missed.'