Epic version of Indian national anthem sets Guinness record

CALCULATED, (ANI) – An epic version of the Indian national anthem conceptualized by Grammy winner Ricky Kej with Kolkata-based cultural activist Sundeep Bhutoria as associate producer, set a new milestone by entering the Guinness Book of World Records as the ‘Largest Singing Lesson’ with a choir of nearly 14,000 tribal children from Odisha performing together at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

The video also features living musical legends of India – Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, Rakesh Chaurasia, Amaan & Ayaan Ali Bangash, Rahul Sharma, Jayanthi Kumaresh, Sheik & Kaleeshabi Mahaboob, Giridhar Udupa and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra of UK.

“This project is a true celebration of India’s unity in diversity and marks a significant step forward in the field of musical collaboration and cultural representation. The collaboration of these legendary artists with thousands of children of Odisha sends a powerful message to the world about the strength of our cultural heritage. It was an honour to be a part of this historic moment,” said Sundeep Bhutoria, Trustee of the Prabha Khaitan Foundation, which promotes India’s cultural heritage globally.

“This project is a testament to the power of music to bring people together. It is a celebration of our diverse heritage and a tribute to the spirit of India. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together,” said Ricky Kej.

The 14,000 children created a human map of India and formed the word ‘Bharat’ in Hindi and English, a powerful visual representation of India’s rich cultural heritage and the boundless potential of its youth. This version of the national anthem was released across multiple platforms by Universal Music India.

Ricky Kej, the celebrated Indian musician, has once again raised the bar for musical excellence to an all-time high. After his remarkable feat in 2023, where he conducted the largest symphony orchestra of all time (the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, 100 musicians, UK) to perform the Indian national anthem at Abbey Road Studios in London,

The recording is available on all streaming platforms.