A R Rahman at Grammy
Los Angeles: Oscar-winner A.R. Rahman continued his winning streak, bagging two Grammy awards for his foot-tapping number ‘Jai Ho’ and outstanding soundtrack for the film Slumdog Millionaire.
“This is insane, God is great again,” an elated Rahman said while accepting the golden gramophones at the Staples Center here, his first Grammy win.
The composer shared the award for ‘Jai Ho’ with lyricist Gulzar and Tanvi Shah, who penned the Spanish words of the international hit.
“I never dreamt about winning all these awards,” the 44-year-old said, adding, “All my well wishers from the world who keep me going ...Jai Ho India ...!”
Rahman won in the category of Best Compilation Soundtrack Album For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media for Slumdog Millionaire and Best Song Written For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media for ‘Jai Ho.’
Sunday’s win was reminiscent of his victory at last year’s Oscars where the ‘Mozart of Madras’ bagged two Academy awards for his music in Slumdog Millionaire, besides winning a Golden Globe and a BAFTA award.
However, two other Indian hopefuls — sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and tabla legend Zakir Hussain — lost out.
Amjad Ali Khan, nominated in the Best Traditional World Music Album category for his album ‘Ancient Sounds’ was pipped by African Mamadou Diabate for his album ‘Douga Mansa (The King’s Vulture).’
Hussain, who won a Grammy last year, and was nominated in the Best Classical Crossover Album category for ‘The Melody of Rhythm,’ was beaten by Chinese-origin musician Yo-Yo Ma for his record ‘Songs Of Joy And Peace.’
