'Will Make Every Indian Proud': PM Modi Commends Ricky Kej's Record-Breaking National Anthem Rendition

Ricky Kej unveiled the captivating musical achievement on Monday, sharing the video through X, formerly known as Twitter

File Photo Of Ricky Kej

Source : Getty

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised Ricky Kej, a three-time Grammy winner, for his exceptional rendition of India's national anthem, "Jana Gana Mana". The masterpiece, performed by the largest-ever orchestra, resonates with a sense of national pride and artistic achievement. Kej's rendition, executed in collaboration with the renowned Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) at London's historic Abbey Road Studios, coincides with India's 77th Independence Day celebrations.

Kej unveiled the captivating musical achievement on Monday, sharing the video through X, formerly known as Twitter. In response, Prime Minister Modi expressed his admiration, stating, "Wonderful. It will certainly make every Indian proud." The unveiling of the "Jana Gana Mana" rendition on the eve of India's 77th Independence Day adds a touch of unity and artistic brilliance to the nation's celebratory atmosphere.

Wonderful. It will certainly make every Indian proud. https://t.co/IDQZdCFpdQ

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 14, 2023

In an insightful tweet, Kej detailed the momentous orchestral endeavor, "A few days ago, I conducted a 100-piece British orchestra, The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, to perform India's National Anthem at the legendary Abbey Road Studios, London." This groundbreaking initiative not only set a new record by assembling the largest-ever orchestra for the recording of India's National Anthem but also evoked profound emotions within the composer himself.

A few days ago, I conducted a 100-piece British orchestra, The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to perform India’s National Anthem at the legendary Abbey Road Studios, London. This is the largest orchestra ever to record India's National Anthem and it is spectacular! The "Jaya He" at… pic.twitter.com/sqJGW8mTDu

— Ricky Kej (@rickykej) August 14, 2023

Reflecting on the experience, Kej expressed, "The 'Jaya He' at the end gave me goosebumps. Felt great as an Indian composer :-) I am sharing this historic recording with every one of you this Independence Day – use it, share it, watch it, but with respect :-) It is yours now. Jai Hind."

This version of our National Anthem is my gift to the nation. Everyone please feel free to use this recording and video for whatever purposes you want - events, TV, radio, schools, colleges, social media posts, youtube.. whatever. There will be no demand for royalties, money,…

— Ricky Kej (@rickykej) August 14, 2023

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO), established under the visionary leadership of Sir Thomas Beecham in 1946, played an integral role in this momentous achievement. Renowned as the United Kingdom's "most in-demand" orchestra, the RPO remains dedicated to fostering meaningful engagement with communities and democratising orchestral music.

Vikram Doraiswami, the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, praised Kej's artistic ingenuity and dedication, emphasizing the project's significance. "Ricky Kej, a three-time Grammy Award winner, is known for his innovative approach and continuous exploration of new horizons in the realm of music. This year, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Ricky for orchestrating a unique project – a celebration of India on its Independence Day through a recording and performance of our National Anthem with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London; a record-breaking endeavor that pays homage to India," remarked Doraiswami.

@HCI_London warmly thanks @rickykej for this special rendition of 🇮🇳 National Anthem with 100-member orchestra from @royalphilorch @ historic @AbbeyRoad. This is the largest symphony orchestra to record 🇮🇳National Anthem. Tune in & celebrate 🇮🇳 on Independence Day! @AmritMahotsav pic.twitter.com/n4fkbIRnnd

— India in the UK (@HCI_London) August 14, 2023