In anticipation of India's 77th Independence Day, Ricky Kej, the three-time Grammy Award winner, unveiled a rendition of the nation's National Anthem. This version was recorded with the largest orchestra ever assembled at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London.
The recording of "Jana Gana Mana" showcases a 100-piece British orchestra from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. The recording took place a few days prior in preparation for India's Independence Day on Tuesday. Ricky Kej and the Indian High Commission in London encouraged members of the diaspora to spread the one-minute video as they celebrate this significant occasion.
“Ricky Kej, three-time Grammy Award winner, always innovative, always at the cutting edge of doing something new in the world of music. This year, we congratulate and thank Ricky for putting together a unique project – celebrating India on its Independence Day with a recording and a performance of India’s National Anthem with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London; the largest-ever orchestra to record the Indian National Anthem and put out as a tribute to India,” said Vikram Doraiswami, the Indian High Commissioner to the UK.
Before the collaboration, Kej reflected on how times have changed, considering he is now leading the British orchestra after a history of British rule over India. He mentioned that conducting the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra to perform "Jana Gana Mana" was a unique experience.
At 42 years old, Kej revealed that "Jana Gana Mana" was the first musical piece he learned as a child. The rendition was a product of three months of meticulous planning.
