In an emotional outpour of gratitude, music composer and singer Shankar Mahadevan shared his profound thanks through a heartfelt note after his band, Shakti, which he co-leads with tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain, clinched the Best Global Music Album award at the Grammys 2024. Capturing the essence of elated disbelief, Mahadevan described the victory as the embodiment of his lifelong dreams coming to fruition.
Taking to the social media platform Instagram, Mahadevan posted a series of celebratory images from the Grammys, captioned with a poignant message that reflected his journey from an ardent student of music to a Grammy-winning artist. The post attracted the attention and congratulations from across the music world, reaffirming the influence and impact of Shakti’s victory not only on Mahadevan’s career but on the global music community.
“I never imagined that a band, which was the foundation of my music learning and my musical philosophy, would be the same band I’d one day share the stage with and win a Grammy. This is the moment that clearly affirms that dreams do come true. Shakti was a cherished dream that has been realized! My heartfelt thanks to the Almighty for making this possible! It’s truly ‘THIS MOMENT’,” Mahadevan wrote, capturing the significance of the achievement.
The significance of Shakti’s win resonated within the entertainment industry as stars were quick to extend their accolades. Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty remarked, “Congratulations Well deserved… Sooo happy for you, a great achievement for the country too.” Television’s leading lady Amruta Khanvilkar added, “Many many congratulations sir and thank you for bringing this honour to our country.” Music producer and composer Vishal Dadlani commented, “Well deserved @shankar.mahadevan !! India is proud!!”
Other notable reactions included Farhan Akhtar’s “Congratulations Shankar… here’s to first of many…” and Sonu Nigam’s heartfelt, “Bhai… God’s blessed you for your goodness and your talent… Lots of love and prayers.”
In his acceptance speech delivered with palpable emotion, Mahadevan thanked his bandmates, God, his family and friends, and the nation of India. He declared, “India, we are proud of you…” capping his speech with a dedication to his wife who he stated was the inspiration behind every note he composed. The speech garnered loud applause and cheers, underscoring the warm reception for the musician’s triumphant moment.
Shakti’s winning album ‘This Moment’ is an eclectic fusion of eight tracks, showcasing the combined talents of John McLaughlin on his guitar and guitar synth, Zakir Hussain with his tabla mastery, Mahadevan’s evocative vocals, V Selvaganesh’s rhythmic percussion, and Ganesh Rajagopalan’s masterful violin playing.
The Grammy Award commemorates significant international recognition and upholds Shakti’s position as a beacon of global music fusion, bridging cultures, and genres. Mahadevan and his bandmates’ commitment to their craft and the connectedness of music beyond boundaries was celebrated through ‘This Moment,’ a tile that now carries even more meaning following their prestigious Grammy win.
The coveted award at Grammy 2024 not only reinforces Shankar Mahadevan and Shakti’s position in the music world but also emphasizes the influence of Indian music on the global stage. Their triumph serves as inspiration, affirming that tireless dedication to artistry and cultural authenticity resonates universally and can indeed fulfill the greatest of dreams.
