Indian-American artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Chandrika Tandon has etched her name in Grammy history by winning her first award at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards. Tandon’s album Triveni triumphed in the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category, an achievement that cements her status as a globally recognised musician.
Tandon shared the award with her collaborators—South African flautist Wouter Kellerman and Japanese cellist Eru Matsumoto. Competing against formidable contenders such as Ricky Kej (Break of Dawn), Anoushka Shankar (Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn), Ryuichi Sakamoto (Opus), and Radhika Vekaria (Warriors of Light), Tandon’s victory is a testament to her dedication to musical innovation and spiritual expression.
Born in Chennai, India, and raised in a family deeply rooted in the classical traditions of the Samaveda, music was an integral part of Tandon’s upbringing. Her early years were immersed in Vedic chants and Carnatic music, shaping her artistic journey. She pursued academics with equal fervor, graduating from Madras Christian College and earning a master’s degree from the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad. A trailblaser in the business world, she became the first Indian-American woman to be elected partner at McKinsey & Company.
Despite her corporate success, Tandon’s passion for music never faded. She trained rigorously in Hindustani and Carnatic music under esteemed mentors like Shubhra Guha and Girish Wazalwar. Her debut album Soul Call (2009) was a turning point, securing a Grammy nomination in 2011 for Contemporary World Music.
Tandon’s Grammy-winning album Triveni, released on August 30, 2024, is an exquisite blend of ancient Vedic chants and contemporary world music. The album features seven tracks—Pathway to Light, Chant in A, Journey Within, Aether’s Serenade, Ancient Moon, Open Sky, and Seeking Shakti—each offering a meditative experience aimed at inner healing and spiritual awakening. By integrating classical Indian music with modern instrumentation, Tandon has crafted a soundscape that resonates with audiences across the world.
Accepting the Grammy, Tandon delivered a heartfelt speech that echoed her deep connection to music: “Music is love, music ignites the light within all of us, and, even in our darkest days, music spreads joy and laughter.” Her win is particularly significant given the caliber of artists in the category, including fellow Indian-origin musicians Ricky Kej and Anoushka Shankar.
Beyond her musical endeavors, Tandon is a committed philanthropist. She has made significant contributions to education, arts, and social causes, and her efforts have been widely recognised. She remains deeply invested in initiatives that promote the transformative power of music and culture worldwide.
This year’s Grammy ceremony was more than just an awards night—it was also a fundraiser for victims of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, which claimed 29 lives and displaced thousands. The event featured stellar performances, including a star-studded opening with John Legend, Brad Paisley, and St. Vincent, and an electrifying set by Billie Eilish.
Other major highlights included Beyoncé’s groundbreaking win for Cowboy Carter in the Best Country Album category and Doechii’s historic victory as only the third woman to win Best Rap Album.
