Chandrika Tandon, the Indian-origin banking mogul and musician, made headlines at the 67th Grammy Awards held on February 2, 2025, winning the prestigious Best New Age, Ambient, or Chant Album award for her transformational album, Triveni. This album, which combines ancient Vedic chants with contemporary world music elements, has been lauded for its meditative qualities, aiming to invoke 'inner healing' through its seven enchanting tracks.
Tandon, who is 71 years old, collaborated with prominent artists such as South African flautist Wouter Kellerman and Japanese cellist Eru Matsumoto. Together, they sought to present the exquisite age-old Vedic chants, artfully blending their different musical styles to create something truly unique. Tandon articulated her philosophy about music during her acceptance speech, stating, "Music is love, music ignites the light within all of us, and, even in our darkest days, music spreads joy and laughter." This sentiment resonates deeply with her audience and adds a personal touch to her artistic pursuits.
Born and raised in Chennai, India, Tandon grew up enveloped by music, which was deeply rooted in her Tamil Brahmin family's tradition. Her mother, a musician herself, often instilled the importance of Vedic chants and Carnatic music within the household. Tandon pursued her academic interests at Madras Christian College before attending IIM Ahmedabad, where she was one of just eight women in her class. This background demonstrates her determination and resilience, qualities she undoubtedly also brings to her music and business endeavors.
Prior to her music career, Tandon made significant strides in the corporate world. She stands out as the first Indian-American female partner at McKinsey & Company and established her own firm, Tandon Capital Associates. Her professional achievements speak volumes about her capabilities, as does her philanthropic work—Tandon and her husband donated $100 million to the New York University Polytechnic School of Engineering, which now bears their name.
The album Triveni faced considerable competition at the Grammy Awards, contending with other notable works such as Ricky Kej's Break of Dawn and Anoushka Shankar's Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn. Despite the fierce competition, Tandon’s album stood out for its innovative fusion of traditional and contemporary elements, showcasing her ability to transcend cultural barriers. "It wasn't just about the music. It was about bridging the generations through sound," said industry experts following her win.
Tandon's personal life is equally fascinating. She is the elder sister of Indra Nooyi, the well-known former CEO of PepsiCo, and their bond reflects the shared determination and strength within their family. While Nooyi has garnered recognition for her leadership prowess, Tandon shines brightly on her own with her multifaceted career spanning music and business.
Chandrika Tandon’s previous Grammy nomination came back in 2011 for her album Soul Call. This work was inspired by Mahatma Gandhi's historic Dandi March, showcasing her roots and connection to Indian heritage even at such prestigious levels. Now, with her Grammy win for Triveni, Tandon has brought renewed focus to the beauty of Vedic chants and culture.
Social media buzzed following the Grammy announcement, with fans from both India and the United States celebrating this achievement from the respected artist. Notably, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Tandon for her accomplishments, recognizing the significance her win holds for Indian culture and music abroad.
Chandrika Tandon's experience as both a musician and business leader reflects the breadth of her talents and the successful merging of her two passions. Her work, particularly with Triveni, exemplifies the power of music to heal and resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. The Grammy win is not just a milestone; it solidifies her as both artist and entrepreneur, inspiring many to follow their dreams against all odds.
The anticipation surrounding her future projects is mounting, with fans eager to see how she will continue to evolve as both an artist and leader. She embodies the idea of lifelong learning and reinvention, proving it’s never too late to pursue one's passions.