Renowned playback singer Alka Yagnik has opened up about her battle with a rare sensorineural hearing loss, a condition she developed following a viral attack. The singer also explained her recent absence from the public eye.

“To all my fans, friends, followers and well-wishers,” began the beloved crooner. “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.” The singer continued, “It has been diagnosed by my [doctors] as a rare sensory neural nerve hearing loss, due to a viral attack...This sudden, major setback has caught me completely unaware. As I attempt to come to terms with it please keep me in your prayers.” She furthered, “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. 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.”