Great news has come for India from Grammy Awards 2025. Indian-origin music artist Chandrika Tandon has won the prestigious award for ‘Best New Age, Ambient or Chant Album’ for her album ‘Triveni’. In this album, she has given a unique presentation by mixing traditional mantras with modern music.
Chandrika Tandon, a renowned Indian-American artist and philanthropist, has once again captured the global music scene with her Grammy-winning album, “Triveni.” This mesmerizing album, which won the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album at the 2025 Grammy Awards, is a breathtaking confluence of traditional Indian chants, soothing ambient sounds, and modern musical sensibilities. Through “Triveni,” Tandon has skillfully bridged the past and present, creating an immersive spiritual and musical experience that transcends cultural boundaries.
What Does “Triveni” Mean?
The name “Triveni” is deeply rooted in Indian culture and spirituality. It refers to the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of three rivers—Ganga, Yamuna, and the mystical Saraswati—in Prayagraj, India. This spiritual symbolism extends into the album’s concept, where Tandon merges three distinct musical styles: classical Indian chants, world fusion instrumentation, and contemporary ambient soundscapes. Just as the rivers merge seamlessly, “Triveni” creates a musical flow that resonates with listeners on an emotional and spiritual level.
Concept and Inspiration Behind “Triveni”
Chandrika Tandon has always been deeply connected to Indian classical music, having trained under legendary maestros. However, with “Triveni,” she sought to reinterpret Vedic chants and Sanskrit mantras by blending them with elements from global musical traditions. The album is designed to be a meditative journey, providing listeners with a sense of calm, introspection, and transcendence.
Tandon believes in the healing power of music, and this philosophy is evident in the album’s composition. She describes “Triveni” as a work that is meant to uplift the soul, balance the mind, and create an atmosphere of serenity. The music is not just about entertainment; it is an experience of spiritual awakening.
Collaboration with Global Artists
“Triveni” is a product of international collaboration, featuring world-class musicians who bring unique flavors to the album. Some of the key collaborators include:
Wouter Kellerman, a Grammy-winning South African flutist, known for his evocative and soulful playing.
Iru Matsumoto, a gifted Japanese cellist, whose melodies add depth and emotion to the album.
By incorporating instruments like the bansuri (Indian flute), cello, tabla, veena, and electronic ambient sounds, Tandon has crafted a sonic experience that is both ancient and modern.
Tracklist and Musical Elements
“Triveni” consists of seven beautifully curated tracks, each offering a unique interpretation of traditional chants while maintaining a contemporary essence. The album combines:
- Sanskrit shlokas and Vedic hymns that have been recited for centuries.
- Melodic progressions inspired by Indian classical ragas, providing a deep emotional connection.
- Global instrumentation, making the music universally appealing.
- Each track on “Triveni” takes listeners on a journey, gradually leading them into a state of meditation and inner peace. The use of slow rhythmic cycles, harmonic layering, and ambient textures enhances the immersive quality of the album.
Why “Triveni” Stands Out?
“Triveni” is more than just an album—it is an experience of mindfulness and spiritual elevation. Here’s what makes it special:
Authenticity with Innovation – While the album preserves the essence of ancient chants, it presents them in a fresh, accessible way for modern listeners.
Cultural Fusion – The album masterfully blends Indian spirituality with world music, appealing to a global audience.
Healing Properties – The use of repetitive, calming melodies and harmonic resonance has been designed to reduce stress, enhance focus, and promote inner peace.
High Production Quality – With state-of-the-art recording techniques and expert musicianship, “Triveni” delivers a rich and immersive sound.
Critical Acclaim and Grammy Win
Since its release, “Triveni” has been met with widespread critical acclaim. The album’s Grammy win in the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category is a testament to its universal appeal. Competing against other top-tier artists like Ricky Kej, Anoushka Shankar, and Ryuichi Sakamoto, Tandon’s victory highlights the growing global appreciation for Indian spiritual music.
Music critics and listeners alike have praised the album for its:
Deeply meditative quality
Soul-stirring vocal performances
Innovative blend of classical and contemporary sounds
Universal accessibility, despite its roots in Indian traditions
Chandrika Tandon’s Musical Legacy
Chandrika Tandon is not new to the Grammy stage. She was previously nominated for a Grammy in 2010 for her album “Soul Call,” which was also a fusion of Indian spiritual music and global sounds. Beyond music, she is an influential businesswoman and philanthropist, known for her efforts in education, arts, and cultural preservation.
Her journey from the corporate boardroom (as the sister of Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo) to the world of music is a remarkable testament to her passion and dedication. Through albums like “Triveni,” she continues to inspire audiences by proving that music is a universal force that transcends boundaries.
Grammy Awards 2025: Who is Chandrika Tandon? special personality of music and business world