Vishal Dadlani is one of the most phenomenal music composers in the Bollywood film industry. Over the years, the music composer has given the industry chart-topping hits like Dhoom Again, Kurban Hua, Jee Le Zara, Marjaaniyan, and Swag Se Swagat, among others.
Besides being a successful composer, he has also been a judge on the popular singing reality show, Indian Idol. Earlier this year, in April 2025, Vishal announced that he would be quitting the show with the end of its 15th season. However, it now seems that the composer has changed his mind and is set to rejoin the show with its new season.
Vishal Dadlani to return as judge in Indian Idol Season 16
Vishal has been associated with the singing reality show, Indian Idol, for over 5 years, judging it from Season 10 to Season 15. He also appeared as a judge on Indian Idol Junior Season 1 and 2. However, in April 2025, Vishal took to his Instagram handle and shared a heartfelt note, revealing that he was quitting the show. However, now that the makers of the show have released the new promo for Indian Idol Season 16, it is clear that the composer is set to return as a judge and will be featured in the upcoming season.
Netizens question Vishal Dadlani’s return in Indian Idol Season 16
Soon after the promo of Indian Idol Season 16 was released, netizens noticed Vishal’s presence in the show as a judge. He was seen beside popular singer, Shreya Ghoshal and was promoting the show. A user wrote, “But they said it was Vishal’s last Indian Idol nah?” Replying to this comment, a user said, “They made a whole thing out of it, he even posted a story about how it was his last season as he wanted to focus on making more music and touring and thus how he would be unable to commit to a 6-month-long show.” Another user commented, “Vishal ka toh woh last season nhi tha?” Sharing excitement a user wrote, “Vishu sir wapis aa gaye I knew it.”
Vishal Dadlani announced his exit from Indian Idol in April after judging for six seasons
On April 6, 2025, Vishal shared a fun-filled BTS clip where he was seen with co-judges, Shreya Ghoshal and Badshah. Along with the Reel, he penned a heartfelt note. He thanked the cast and crew of the show. He also mentioned the reason behind quitting the show. The note can be read as:
“That’s all from me, folks! Six straight seasons later, tonight is my last episode as a judge on Indian Idol. I hope the show will miss me as much as I’ll miss it. Thanks Shreya, Badshah, Adi, Aradhana, Chitra, Anand ji, Sonal, Pratibha, Sahil, Saloni, Muskaan, Abisha, the entire production crew, Vilas, Pakya, Kaushik (Pinky), and all the co-judges, singers and musicians down the years! It really has been home!! That stage is pure love! Time to get back to making music, playing concerts and almost never putting on make-up! Jai ho!”
More about Indian Idol Season 16
The theme of Indian Idol Season 16 is Yaadon Ki Playlist: Jahaan Awazein Aaj Wali Aur Gaane Aap Wale. The upcoming season is set to premiere on October 18, 2025, on Sony TV and Sony LIV. Contestants will perform the timeless classics with modern twists, blending nostalgia and melody to entertain audiences every weekend.
Are you excited to see Vishal Dadlani on the upcoming show, Indian Idol Season 16? Let us know.
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