Chandrika Tandon, an Indian-American musician, made history at the 2025 Grammy Awards by winning her first-ever Grammy in the Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album category. At the age of 71, Tandon’s victory was a momentous achievement, marking her second Grammy nomination after her 2009 nomination for her album Soul Call. This time, it was her album Treni that earned the prestigious award, a project that beautifully blends Indian classical music with global influences, showcasing the power of diversity in musical expression.
Born in Chennai, India, Tandon has built a remarkable career that intertwines her deep passion for music with her success in the global business world. Many may not be aware that she is the older sister of Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo. Tandon’s achievements demonstrate that the pursuit of one’s passion can transcend boundaries, whether in business or the arts.
Her album Treni is more than just a collection of songs—it represents a convergence of three sacred Indian rivers: the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati. This concept of unity is reflected in the diverse musical elements Tandon incorporates, blending ancient Indian traditions with contemporary global sounds. Released on August 30, 2024, the album features seven tracks that evoke a sense of spiritual exploration, mindfulness, and inner peace. The tracks include titles like Path to Light, Chant, A Journey Within, Ether, Serenade, Ancient Moon, Open Sky, and Seeking Shakti, each offering a unique, meditative experience.
The Grammy win is a triumph not only for Tandon but also for Indian music on the world stage. Her success highlights the growing global recognition of Indian artists and their ability to fuse traditional sounds with modern genres. Tandon’s Treni proves that Indian classical music can resonate with a global audience, as it combines soul-stirring melodies with a timeless message of peace and unity.
Speaking on her victory, Tandon expressed her gratitude and joy, taking the stage at the 67th Grammy Awards with heartfelt words. She stated, “Music is love, music is light, and music is laughter. Let’s all be surrounded by love, light, and laughter. Thank you for the music, and thank you to everyone who makes music.” She acknowledged the fierce competition in her category, which included renowned musicians such as Indian composer Ricky Kej, the legendary Japanese musician Kitaro, Anoushka Shankar, and Rashika. For Tandon, the recognition of such talented artists made her win all the more special.
In an emotional backstage interview, Tandon described the win as “amazing,” emphasizing how much the recognition meant to her. The competition was fierce, but Tandon’s unique blend of ancient Indian chants with ambient sounds captured the judges’ attention and resonated with audiences around the world.
Beyond her musical achievements, Tandon’s Grammy win also proves that it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams. Her dedication to both music and business has shown that age is no barrier to success. Her journey stands as an inspiration to all those who wish to follow their passions, regardless of when they begin.
Chandrika Tandon’s Grammy win is a defining moment for Indian classical music and an important milestone in the recognition of Indian artists globally. Her work, exemplified by Treni, is a beautiful reminder of the power of music to bridge cultures and connect hearts, regardless of geographical or cultural differences. Tandon’s victory is not just a personal accomplishment but also a celebration of the growing impact of Indian music on the world stage.
