Grammy Awards: PM Modi’s album lost to Zakir Hussain- Shankar Mahadevan’s Shakti

Grammy Awards 2024 witnessed a stunning showdown as the fusion band Shakti, led by musicians Shankar Mahadevan and Zakir Hussain, clinched the coveted Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album with their latest release, 'This Moment.'

The group, which also features guitarist John McLaughlin, percussionist V Selvaganesh, and violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan, took to the stage in Los Angeles to accept the prestigious honour.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's collaborative effort with Indian-American singers Falu and Gaurav Shah, titled 'Abundance in Millets,' lost out to Shakti in the fiercely competitive category.

The song, dedicated to promoting the benefits of millets and released in June as part of the "International Year of Millets" celebration, failed to secure the Grammy, despite its unique collaboration.

Shankar Mahadevan expressed his gratitude in the acceptance speech, thanking his fellow musicians, family, and friends, and expressing pride for India. He also dedicated the award to his wife, acknowledging her influence on his musical journey.

The Best Global Music Performance category witnessed another triumph for Zakir Hussain, who won the Grammy for his contribution to "Pashto," a collaboration with Bela Fleck and Edgar Meyer, featuring Rakesh Chaurasia.

The category included strong contenders, including the unique collaboration between PM Narendra Modi, Falu, and Gaurav, making the victory even more significant for Hussain.

Indian composer Ricky Kej celebrated the success of Indian artists at the Grammys, noting Ustad Zakir Hussain's historic achievement of winning three Grammys in one night.

The living legend's collaboration with virtuoso flute player Rakesh Chaurasia resulted in a second Grammy win, further highlighting the stellar achievements of Indian musicians on the global stage.