Introduction: More Than Music, A Journey Through India’s Pop Culture Icon
Yo Yo Honey Singh, the rapper-singer who once dominated India’s music charts before disappearing from the spotlight to battle bipolar disorder, is returning to the stage with “My Story”—a deeply personal world tour that combines live music with intimate storytelling. After kicking off in Dubai on February 6, 2026, the India chapter begins in Delhi on March 14, curated by NDTV Good Times as part of its mission to reimagine live cultural experiences for contemporary India.
Unlike conventional concert formats, “My Story” has been envisioned as a narrative-led experience where Honey Singh will revisit key phases of his musical journey—sharing anecdotes, reflecting on his time away from the spotlight, and offering insight into the stories behind his most popular tracks. The India leg will travel to Delhi (March 14), Ahmedabad (March 21), Mumbai (March 28), Pune (April 4), and Kota (April 11), with additional cities expected to be announced.
Adding a fan-centric dimension, NDTV Good Times has launched the “Yo Yo Golden Ticket” campaign, extended until February 1 due to phenomenal response during the Republic Day weekend. This initiative offers lucky fans the chance to receive items from Honey Singh’s personal wardrobe, join him on stage, take selfies, and receive signed autographs—becoming part of his personal “My Story” journey.
Yo Yo Honey Singh: The Rise, Fall, and Remarkable Comeback
The Meteoric Rise to Stardom
Born Hirdesh Singh, Yo Yo Honey Singh transformed Indian pop music in the early 2010s with his fusion of Punjabi folk, hip-hop beats, and bold lyrics. His breakthrough came with infectious party anthems that dominated clubs, weddings, and radio stations across India and the global desi diaspora.
Career-Defining Hits:
2012-2013: The Peak Years
- “Brown Rang” (2012): The song that launched him into superstardom, becoming one of YouTube’s top trending videos that year
- “High Heels” (collaboration with Jaz Dhami): Another viral hit that cemented his international appeal
- “Angreji Beat” (with Gippy Grewal): A party anthem that dominated dance floors across India
- “Blue Eyes” (2013): Known for its sleek production and catchy hook, showcasing his versatility in blending Hindi and English lyrics with international sound
2014-2015: Mainstream Domination
- Desi Kalakaar (2014): His second album featuring the title track with Sonakshi Sinha and “Love Dose”
- “Dheere Dheere” (2015): A romantic single featuring Hrithik Roshan and Sonam Kapoor
- “Birthday Bash” (2015): Released in February 2015
Bollywood Integration:
Singh also composed music for numerous Bollywood films, bringing his signature sound to mainstream cinema and collaborating with industry heavyweights.
At his peak, it was nearly impossible for one of his songs not to generate buzz. He had become one of the biggest names in the Indian music industry, commanding massive fees and selling out concerts worldwide.
The Sudden Disappearance: Bipolar Disorder and Mental Health Crisis
Then, at the height of his career in 2014, Honey Singh suddenly vanished from public view. What the world didn’t know was that he was battling severe mental health challenges that had manifested during a television shoot.
The Breaking Point:
In a candid interview with Siddharth Kannan, Singh revealed the traumatic moment everything fell apart:
“When I fell ill a lot of things were going on in life. I had the SLAM tour with Shah Rukh Khan. I had worked on a Star Plus project, I chose its name. I designed it for a year. When the show started, a lot of work was there. I was also doing a Punjabi film. A lot of things were happening. When I collapsed, when I had bipolar disorder and psychotic symptoms on set of Raw Star…”
The Diagnosis:
Honey Singh was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after experiencing psychotic symptoms while working on Star Plus’ show Raw Star. The condition, characterized by extreme mood swings between manic highs and depressive lows, required immediate medical intervention and long-term treatment.
The Treatment Journey:
- Singh took a complete sabbatical from public life to focus on treatment
- He spent years in therapy and medication management
- During this period, he continued earning revenue through his old songs, which remained hits with audiences
- He gave up drugs in 2014 (some sources say 2015) as part of his recovery process
- It took approximately 8 years to fully stabilize and feel ready to return
- He only met his parents four times during those years, indicating the severity of his condition
The Failed Comebacks and Fat-Shaming
Singh’s return to public life was not smooth. His attempts at comebacks between 2015-2021 were marred by public criticism and body-shaming that compounded his mental health struggles.
“My songs became hits, I was making a comeback, but was facing failures. Mota tha, logo ne kaha, ‘Yeh woh look nahi hai, woh comeback nahi horaha’. Gaana hit horaha tha but mujhe accept nahi karahe the log” (I was fat, people said, ‘This isn’t the look, the comeback isn’t happening’. The songs were hits but people were not accepting me).
This brutal public reception during his vulnerable recovery period highlighted the entertainment industry’s often cruel focus on appearance over artistry.
The Transformative Weight Loss: 18 Kg in One Month
In 2025, Honey Singh stunned fans with a dramatic physical transformation, losing 18 kilograms in just one month—going from 95 kg to 77 kg. This remarkable achievement was accomplished through natural methods without supplements or shortcuts.
The Weight Loss Strategy:
Diet Plan:
- Morning: Green juice on an empty stomach, followed by blended vegetables or vegetable pulp for fiber
- Lunch: Boiled chicken with rice for balanced protein and carbohydrates
- Evening: Vegetable soup or boiled chicken to sustain metabolism
- Dinner: Green vegetables or soup for fiber and essential vitamins
- Eliminations: Completely cut out processed foods, sugar, and alcohol
- Protein Intake: Approximately 60 grams daily from natural sources like chicken and vegetables
Workout Routine:
- Strength training to build muscle and enhance endurance
- Cardio workouts to accelerate fat burning
- High-rep training for increased metabolism and fat loss
- Daily sessions combining all three elements
Expert Guidance:
The transformation was guided by Arun Kumar, Mr. Asia 2022, who crafted Singh’s routine with a focus on natural methods. Kumar emphasized that the approach combined clean eating, targeted workouts, and a specially formulated green juice designed to stimulate metabolism and improve digestion.
Medical Perspective:
Dr. Kiran Soni, Head of Nutrition & Health at Yatharth Hospital, Greater Noida, noted that while the rapid weight loss was unusual, it resulted from a well-structured diet and intense workouts. The green juice helped detoxify his body and boost metabolism, while the high-protein, whole-food diet ensured sustained energy levels.
This physical transformation symbolized Singh’s complete mental and emotional recovery, preparing him to return to the stage with renewed confidence and energy.
Recent Releases and Continued Relevance
Post-Comeback Singles:
- “Billo Tu Agg” (2020) featuring Singhsta
- “Saiyaan Ji” (2021) with Neha Kakkar
- “Kanta Laga” (2021) with Tony Kakkar and Neha Kakkar
These releases demonstrated that despite his absence and struggles, Honey Singh’s musical formula still resonated with audiences.
“My Story” World Tour: A Global Journey
The Dubai Launch
The “My Story” world tour officially launched at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on February 6, 2026. The choice of Dubai as the starting point held special significance for Singh, who stated: “Launching this journey in Dubai, the city that first gave my music an international stage, feels like life is coming to a full circle”.
Dubai Show Features:
- Arena-scale production at Coca-Cola Arena
- Full backing band and elaborate visuals
- Special celebrity cameos
- Setlist combining new releases and evergreen hits
- Tickets starting from AED 240 (approximately Rs 5,500)
Global Tour Dates
Following Dubai, the world tour includes stops in:
- Los Angeles, USA
- Chicago, USA
- Texas, USA
- Auckland, New Zealand
- Singapore
- Nairobi, Kenya
- Paris, France
- Additional cities to be announced
This international itinerary reflects Honey Singh’s massive global following among the South Asian diaspora and world music enthusiasts.
Singh’s Personal Statement on the Tour
“This tour is personal. Every song, every performance will tell a part of my story – where I come from, what I’ve learned, and what music means to me,” Singh explained in an official statement. “With My Story World Tour, I’m ready to take my artistry to the next frontier – connecting India to the world stage”.
The India Chapter: NDTV Good Times Takes Center Stage
NDTV Good Times: Reimagining Live Culture
Launched in September 2025, NDTV Good Times represents NDTV’s ambitious entry into the live entertainment and cultural experiences space. The platform aims to present iconic artists across multiple Indian cities, curating evenings that transcend performance and become true occasions of celebration.
NDTV Good Times Inaugural Lineup:
- AR Rahman: Concert at the sacred ghats of the Ganges in Varanasi
- Sonu Nigam: Tribute to 100 years of Mohammed Rafi at Dal Lake, Srinagar
- Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy: Powerhouse music performances
- Jubin Nautiyal and Neha Kakkar: High-energy popular shows
- Yo Yo Honey Singh: “My Story” India tour
Platform Vision:
Rahul Kanwal, CEO and Editor-in-Chief of NDTV, explained: “NDTV has always stood at the intersection of storytelling and society. With NDTV Good Times, we take that commitment into the realm of live culture and experiences – curating iconic performances that will not just entertain but also inspire, connect, and create lasting memories for audiences across India”.
Rahul Shaw, Chief Experiences Officer at NDTV, added: “Live experiences are the new heartbeat of culture globally – and create deeply personal experiences. NDTV Good Times is about reimagining that heartbeat for India”.
India Tour Dates and Cities
Confirmed Schedule:
- Delhi – March 14, 2026 (7:00 PM)
- Ahmedabad – March 21, 2026
- Mumbai – March 28, 2026
- Pune – April 4, 2026
- Kota – April 11, 2026
Additional cities are expected to be announced in the coming weeks, extending the tour’s national footprint.
Ticket Pricing:
Tickets start from Rs 2,499 for the Delhi show, with pricing varying by city and seating category.
Delhi: The Homecoming
Beginning the India chapter in Delhi carries particular significance for Honey Singh. The city represents both his personal and professional origins, making it a fitting starting point for a tour built around reflection and return.
Singh explained: “This tour brings together many chapters of my life and career. It’s a chance to share the journey through music and the stories behind it. Starting in Delhi is special for me, because that’s where everything began”.
The timing is also poignant—the Delhi show is scheduled for March 14, just one day before Singh’s birthday on March 15.
The Narrative-Led Experience Format
What distinguishes “My Story” from conventional concerts is its narrative-led structure. The show is described as “an honest, high-energy journey through Honey Singh’s rise, fall & comeback – stories, hits & legacy”.
Format Elements:
Musical Performance:
- Live renditions of greatest hits spanning his entire career
- New material from recent releases
- Backing band and production values matching arena standards
Storytelling Segments:
- Personal anecdotes about song creation and inspirations
- Reflections on his time away from the spotlight and battle with bipolar disorder
- Insights into the circumstances behind popular tracks
- Discussion of his journey from silence to stadiums
City-Specific Adaptation:
While the musical core remains consistent across cities, the narrative elements will adapt to each location and audience, creating an experience that feels immersive and personal.
Rahul Shaw emphasized this vision: “The My Story Tour is designed as an experience. It brings together music, memory and narrative in a way that allows audiences to engage with the artist beyond the stage”.
Duration:
Each show is expected to run approximately 3 hours, giving ample time for both performance and storytelling.
The Yo Yo Golden Ticket Campaign: Fans Become Part of the Story
Campaign Overview
NDTV Good Times launched the “Yo Yo Golden Ticket” campaign to add a special fan-centric chapter to the India tour. Originally scheduled to run from January 24-26 during the Republic Day weekend, the campaign was extended until February 1 due to phenomenal response.
Eligibility:
Fans who purchase tickets between January 24 and February 1, 2026, automatically enter the Golden Ticket draw for their respective city.
The Delhi Special: Personal Wardrobe Item
For the Delhi show on March 14, one lucky ticket buyer will receive something uniquely personal: an item from Honey Singh’s personal wardrobe. This symbolic gesture carries special meaning as Singh returns to perform in his hometown just one day before his birthday.
The wardrobe piece could be:
- A signature jacket worn during performances
- A piece of jewelry or accessory
- Designer clothing from his collection
- Any personal item Singh chooses to gift
This intimate gesture transforms a fan into a keeper of his personal history.
Other Cities: On-Stage Experience
For Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune, and Kota, one fan from each city will receive an even more memorable experience:
Golden Ticket Rewards:
- Stage Access: Join Honey Singh on stage during the performance
- Personal Selfie: Take a photograph with the artist in front of thousands of fans
- Signed Autograph: Receive a personalized autograph as a keepsake
These experiences create once-in-a-lifetime moments that money cannot simply buy, transforming lucky fans into participants in Singh’s comeback narrative.
Campaign Philosophy
The Golden Ticket campaign reflects a broader shift in how artists and entertainment platforms engage with audiences. Rather than maintaining traditional performer-audience boundaries, modern experiences increasingly invite fans to cross that threshold and become active participants.
As described by NDTV, the campaign is “designed as a tribute to the fans who have been part of his journey” and “invites audiences to step into the world of My Story and become a living chapter in the narrative”.
The Rise of Concert Tourism and Experiential Entertainment in India
Music-Led Travel Culture
The “My Story” tour taps into an emerging trend in India: concert tourism, where young audiences plan entire trips around live music experiences.
Key Statistics on Indian Concert Tourism:
- 76% of respondents had visited a city for the first time because of a concert or music festival
- 62% of festival attendees cite the atmosphere as the reason they return
- 98% express intent to return to large-format festivals like Lollapalooza India
- Concert-led trips are now budgeted for and planned in advance, becoming a deliberate lifestyle choice rather than occasional indulgence
Amanpreet Singh Bajaj, Airbnb’s Country Head for India and Southeast Asia, noted: “Growing interest in music concerts and festivals has paved the way for a new kind of traveler – someone who sees music as a gateway to discovering new destinations”.
Storytelling in Live Music
The “My Story” format aligns with the “art of concert storytelling”—a trend where live performances become narrative experiences that audiences preserve and remember beyond the music itself.
Elements of Concert Storytelling:
- Setting the scene with personal context and historical background
- Sharing emotions and sensations that created the music
- Creating moments that transport audiences into the artist’s journey
- Making the experience shareable and memorable for social media and personal journals
This approach transforms concerts from mere entertainment into cultural events that shape collective memory and identity.
Gen Z and the Experience Economy
India’s young population—one of the youngest demographics globally—has developed a cultural appetite that is bold, diverse, and global in outlook. This generation prioritizes experiences over possessions, making live events, cultural moments, and shared memories more valuable than material goods.
The success of NDTV Good Times’ strategy depends on understanding this fundamental shift: audiences today want to engage with artists on deeper levels, understanding the context and stories that created the music they love.
What Makes “My Story” Different: The Honey Singh Brand of Vulnerability
From Swagger to Substance
Honey Singh built his initial fame on bold, brash party anthems celebrating wealth, nightlife, and hedonism. Songs like “Brown Rang,” “Blue Eyes,” and “Angreji Beat” projected confidence, success, and unfiltered enjoyment.
“My Story” represents an evolution from that persona. While the energy and musical excellence remain, the tour adds layers of vulnerability, reflection, and hard-earned wisdom.
The Power of Openness About Mental Health
By centering his tour around his mental health journey, Honey Singh joins a small but growing number of Indian celebrities openly discussing psychological struggles. His willingness to share his bipolar disorder diagnosis, treatment journey, and failed comebacks creates space for millions of Indians dealing with similar challenges.
In a culture where mental health stigma remains powerful, Singh’s transparency carries significant social impact beyond entertainment.
The Comeback Narrative as Cultural Moment
“My Story” isn’t just Honey Singh’s comeback—it’s a collective cultural moment. Fans who grew up with his music in 2012-2014, who worried during his disappearance, who defended him during fat-shaming episodes, and who celebrated his weight loss transformation now have the opportunity to witness his full return in person.
This shared journey creates emotional investment that transcends typical artist-fan relationships.
Conclusion: Good Times Return for Honey Singh and His Fans
Yo Yo Honey Singh’s “My Story” India tour, curated by NDTV Good Times and enhanced by the Golden Ticket campaign, represents more than a series of concerts—it’s a cultural event marking the full-circle journey of one of India’s most influential and controversial pop artists.
From the peak of superstardom to the depths of mental illness, from public humiliation during attempted comebacks to triumphant physical transformation, and now to arena stages worldwide, Honey Singh’s story embodies resilience, vulnerability, and the possibility of redemption.
The India chapter, beginning in his hometown of Delhi on March 14—one day before his 43rd birthday—and traveling to Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Pune, and Kota, offers fans across the nation the opportunity to participate in this journey. The Golden Ticket campaign transforms some lucky attendees from spectators into participants, creating moments they’ll remember for life.
As Rahul Kanwal of NDTV noted, “With the My Story tour, Honey Singh is opening up a conversation around the experiences and moments that have shaped his career. This format reflects how audiences today want to engage with artists, and we are pleased to partner on a tour that brings context into the live entertainment space”.
For the artist who once sang “Aankhein Blue, Hai Dilbar Su” (Blue Eyes, beloved beauty), the eyes looking back at him from arena audiences will see not just a performer, but a survivor—someone who faced his demons, lost everything, and found his way back to the stage.
That’s a story worth telling. And in the spring of 2026, across five Indian cities and counting, thousands will gather to hear Honey Singh tell it in his own words, with his own beats, creating Good Times that will echo long after the last note fades.