Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and sons win grammy with Dalai Lama Album, creating history for Indian classical music

Indian classical music reached a rare global high at the 68th Annual Grammy Awards, as sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and his sons, Amaan Ali Bangash and Ayaan Ali Bangash, were honoured as composers on the Grammy-winning album Meditations: The Reflections of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. 

The album won the award for Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording, making it a landmark achievement for Indian musicians on the world stage.

A Grammy Win That Made History

The win was historic on multiple levels. Along with the Bangash family, the album marked the first-ever Grammy Award for His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, received at the age of 90. It was also one of the few instances this year where Indian classical artists were recognised at the Grammys, highlighting the global resonance of music rooted in tradition, spirituality, and reflection.

The award was accepted on behalf of the Dalai Lama by musician Rufus Wainwright during the ceremony.

An Album of Reflection, Peace, and Responsibility

Meditations: The Reflections of His Holiness the Dalai Lama is a contemplative spoken-word album that blends the Dalai Lama’s teachings with music. Produced by multi-Grammy and Emmy Award-winning producer Kabir Sehgal, the project explores themes of inner peace, compassion, human unity, environmental care, and universal responsibility.

Reflecting on the honour, the Dalai Lama described the recognition as not personal, but a reminder of shared responsibility, expressing hope that the album would help spread messages of peace and compassion across the world.

Ustad Amjad Ali Khan on a Spiritual Collaboration

Calling the project deeply humbling, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan said the Dalai Lama has been a guiding light for their family for many years. He noted that the collaboration was not just about music, but about values that continue to inspire their lives—peace, hope, and compassion.

Amaan and Ayaan on Art’s Power to Unite

Amaan Ali Bangash described the experience as profoundly moving, highlighting the emotional impact of hearing the Dalai Lama’s reflections interwoven with music. Ayaan Ali Bangash emphasised the album’s universal message, expressing gratitude to the many global artists involved and hoping the music serves as a reminder that peace and kindness are essential.