Ed Sheeran, Arijit Singh & Shah Rukh Khan Unite for New Track “Sapphire”
June 13, 2025: Pop powerhouse Ed Sheeran has just released “Sapphire,” the third single from his upcoming album Play. The track features a vibrant blend of Western pop sensibilities and Punjabi-infused rhythms, with iconic Indian contributors — superstar playback singer Arijit Singh and Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan.
A CrossCultural Love Letter to India
Shot entirely in India—from the grand Baahubali sets to the streets of Kolkata and Hyderabad—the music video is a cinematic journey, featuring Ed riding auto-rickshaws, dancing in a cozy café, exploring bustling local markets, and soaking in the Hooghly River’s scenery.
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Voices That Resonate
- Arijit Singh contributes a soulful Punjabi verse, lending the track rich authenticity.
- Shah Rukh Khan makes a surprise cameo—casually mouthing a line from the chorus, delighting fans and drawing immediate buzz.
The Friendship Backstory
Their partnership has roots in genuine admiration: Ed revealed his long-time spellbinding love for Arijit’s “Tum Hi Ho” from Aashiqui 2, sparking a pen pal friendship that led to collaborative sessions in West Bengal—including riding scooters together and sunset reflections on a river barge .
Song and Album Context
Release Date: “Sapphire” dropped June 5, 2025, as the third preview of Play, which is slated for September 12 release .
Composition: A 2:59-minute fusion track featuring English, Hindi, and Punjabi lyrics, co-written by Ed, Arijit, Johnny McDaid, and others .
Fan and Media Reaction
Praised for its joyous blend of pop and Punjabi beats, the video has already amassed over 21 million YouTube views.
Fans especially lavished praise on Shah Rukh’s cameo, with comments like: “Shah Rukh Khan making an honorary appearance in Sapphire by Ed Sheeran”.
The authentic portrayal of Indian culture—auto rides, tattoos, local music—has led some to jokingly suggest Ed should get an Aadhaar card.
Why It Matters for India & Global Pop
“Sapphire” isn’t just a single—it symbolizes a deepening bridge between Western pop and Indian artistry. With Arijit now poised to headline a UK stadium concert later this year, and Ed’s appreciation for Tollywood cinema confirmed , this collaboration signals a new era of musical exchange and cultural respect.
What’s Next?
Play album launches on September 12, likely featuring more global collaborations.
Expect behind the scenes features and possible Punjabi distinct versions following Arijit’s creative input.
Live performances during Ed’s world tour may include surprise appearances or Indian-influenced arrangements.
Sapphire isn’t just a song—it’s a cross-border celebration. With infectious melodies and star power
backing it, the track is set to resonate globally, while honoring India’s vibrant cultural landscape.
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Published by HOLR Magazine
Image Credit: Instagram / @teddysphotos