Chiranjeevi Lauds Shankar Mahadevan's Shakti For Seizing 'This Moment' At Grammys

It’s not been long since Shankar Mahadevan and Zakir Hussain’s fusion band Shakti earned its due recognition at the 2024 Grammys. Leaving behind artists like Susana Baca, Bokante, Burna Boy and Davido, Shakti sealed the top spot in the Best Global Music Album category for its latest release – This Moment. As the star band members are basking in the glory of their big Grammy win, people from all walks of life have been extending their best wishes for the historic feat. Joining the list of notable wishers, South superstar Chiranjeevi hailed Shakti for seizing ‘This Moment’ for India at the prestigious Grammy Awards.

In a recent post, Chiranjeevi congratulated Team Shakti for ‘making all of us proud’ and added that their amazing achievements inspire millions of Indians. The ‘Megastar’ even apologised for joining in the congratulation spree late.

“The Indian flag flies high at the #GRAMMYs. Joining the party a bit late, but Hearty Congrats to the amazing Team #Shakti for winning the ‘Global Music Album of the year’! Kudos to Ustad @ZakirHtabla, @Shankar_Live #SelvaGanesh, #GaneshRajagopalan for seizing ‘This Moment’ for India at the Grammys this year! Delighted that I have a personal connection with @Shankar_live through some of the wonderful songs he sang for me. You make all of us proud and your amazing achievements inspire millions of Indians!! Jai Hind,” the veteran actor penned.

The reunited Shakti band made a comeback and released its first album in over 45 years. This Moment comprises eight new songs composed by Shankar Mahadevan, Zakir Hussain, John McLaughlin, V Selvaganesh and Ganesh Rajagopalan. The album was released in 2023.

Shakti is a revolutionary band, with Shankar Mahadevan in vocals and Zakir Hussain in Tabla, that combines Indian classical music with jazz. It was founded in 1973 by jazz guitarist John McLaughlin in collaboration with traditional Indian musicians. The founding Shakti team disbanded in 1978 in order to follow their solo careers. Later, in the late 90s, the band was reformed with Shankar Mahadevan, Zakir Hussain, John McLaughlin, U Srinivas and Selvaganesh Vinayakram.

Shakti released many hit albums such as Shakti and A Handful of Beauty in 1976, and Natural Elements in 1977. Last year, the band marked its 50th anniversary with a massive tour across 27 cities all over the world.