Grammy Magic: AR Rahman’s Rare Selfie with Zakir Hussain and Shankar Mahadevan
AR Rahman joyfully shared a selfie on Instagram, capturing a moment with Grammy Award winners in 2024, including tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, singer Shankar Mahadevan, and V Selvaganesh. The photo was taken at the event, showcasing the camaraderie among the talented musicians.
AR Rahman shares selfie, pens note
With smiles directed at the camera, AR Rahman, dressed in a black and green outfit, joined Grammy winners Shankar Mahadevan, clad in green, and tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, who wore a traditional blue ensemble, in a cheerful selfie. Rahman took to Instagram to share the photo, captioning it with, “It’s raining Grammys for India… Congrats Grammy winners #ustadzakirhussain (3 Grammys) @shankar.mahadevan (first Grammy) @selvaganesh (first Grammy) 🇮🇳🔥.” The caption expressed Rahman’s enthusiasm and pride for the Grammy achievements of Zakir Hussain, Shankar Mahadevan, and V Selvaganesh.
About Zakir Hussain, Shankar Mahadevan’s win at Grammys
The fusion music group Shakti, consisting of Zakir Hussain and Shankar Mahadevan, achieved Grammy success by winning the Best Global Music Album for “This Moment.” The album features Shakti founding member, guitarist John McLaughlin, along with Zakir, Shankar, violinist Ganesh Rajagopalan, and percussionist Selvaganesh Vinayakram. “This Moment” is a significant milestone for Shakti, marking their first studio album in over 45 years. Launched to critical acclaim in June 2023, the album received recognition at the Grammys, solidifying Shakti’s enduring impact in the realm of fusion music.
Shankar’s speech at the Grammys
Onstage with Ganesh and Selvaganesh, Shankar Mahadevan extended a shout-out to John and Zakir. While John McLaughlin was absent from the ceremony, Zakir Hussain, who had secured another Grammy, was backstage. In his speech, Shankar expressed, “We miss you, John ji. Zakir Hussain, he just had another Grammy today. Thank you boys, God, family, friends, and India. We are proud of you, India,” dedicating the Grammy win to his wife Sangeeta. The acknowledgment highlighted the collective achievement of the Shakti group and their gratitude towards those who played a significant role in their musical journey.
About Zakir’s win
Zakir Hussain secured two additional Grammys at the event. He triumphed in the Best Global Music Performance category for “Pashto” and also clinched the Best Contemporary Instrumental Album for “As We Speak,” a collaboration with banjo player Bela Fleck and bassist Edgar Meyer, featuring Indian flute player Rakesh Chaurasia. The recognition underscores Zakir Hussain’s diverse musical contributions and the collaborative excellence showcased in “As We Speak.”
Ricky Kej on India’s Grammy win
Three-time Grammy winner Ricky Kej, present at the awards ceremony, declared 2024 as India’s triumphant year at the Grammys. Expressing his excitement, he exclaimed, “Wowwww… this is truly India’s year at the Grammys!!! Wowww… Rakesh Chaurasia, Shankar Mahadevan, Ganesh Rajagopalan, Selvaganesh Vinayakram, and Ustad Zakhir Hussain… India is truly shining!! Thrilled!!!! 5 Indians win in a single year :-)” In a separate post, Ricky Kej celebrated the historic achievement of triple wins for Zakir Hussain and a double feat for Rakesh Chaurasia. He emphasized, “.. and Ustad Zakhir Hussain, the living legend, creates history by winning 3 Grammys in one night!!! Rakesh Chaurasia wins 2!! This is a great year for India at the Grammys.. and I am blessed to witness it. @RecordingAcad #indiawinsatgrammys.” The posts reflected Ricky Kej’s pride in India’s musical prowess and the remarkable success of Indian artists at the prestigious Grammy Awards.
