The 2025 Grammy Awards celebrated a landmark year for Indian-origin talent, with Chandrika Tandon taking home a prestigious award, while Ricky Kej and Anoushka Shankar were recognised as nominees. Tandon, a renowned musician and business leader, won in the Best Global Music Album category for her album Soul Call, beating out past Indian-origin winners Ricky Kej and Anoushka Shankar, who were also nominated this year.
Who is Chandrika Tandon?
Chandrika Tandon is a multifaceted personality known for her achievements in both the corporate and music worlds. The sister of former PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi, Tandon has carved a unique path as a business strategist, philanthropist, and Grammy-nominated artist. At 71, she won her first Grammy for Soul Call, an album that blends spiritual and global music influences. Tandon is also the chair of Tandon Capital Associates and has been recognised for her contributions to education and the arts.
This year’s nominations highlighted the growing influence of Indian-origin artists in the global music scene. Ricky Kej, a previous Grammy winner for his album Winds of Samsara, was nominated in the Best New Age Album category, while sitar virtuoso Anoushka Shankar, a multiple-time nominee, was recognised for her work in the Best World Music Album category. Their contributions continue to build on the legacy of Indian-origin Grammy winners, including Pandit Ravi Shankar, who won posthumously in 2013, and Falu Shah, who won in 2022 for A Colourful World.
The 2025 Grammys also saw major wins across other categories. Taylor Swift made history by winning her fourth Album of the Year award for Midnights, solidifying her status as one of the most decorated artists in Grammy history. Billie Eilish took home Song of the Year for What Was I Made For?, while Olivia Rodrigo won Best Pop Vocal Album for GUTS.
For a full list of winners and highlights, visit Grammy Live.
However, the evening was not without its controversies. Kanye West and his wife Bianca Censori made headlines for their bold red carpet appearance, with Censori wearing a nearly-naked outfit that led to the couple being escorted out of the event. The daring fashion statement sparked heated debates on social media, with many criticising the move as inappropriate for the prestigious event.
The 2025 Grammy Awards will be remembered not only for its celebration of musical excellence but also for the rising prominence of Indian-origin artists on the global stage. Over the years, Indian and Indian-origin artists have made significant contributions to the Grammys. Pandit Ravi Shankar, a legendary sitar maestro, won three Grammy Awards, including a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013. Ricky Kej has won twice, first for Winds of Samsara in 2015 and again for Divine Tides in 2022. Anoushka Shankar, a six-time nominee, continues to be a trailblazer in the world music category.
As Chandrika Tandon and others continue to break barriers, the world eagerly anticipates what the future holds for these trailblazers.
