The 2026 Grammy Awards have sparked a wave of excitement, with Indian artists dominating the Best Global Music Album category. This is a significant moment, as it highlights the growing recognition of diverse musical talents on a global stage.
Despite the Recording Academy’s efforts to diversify, the path to mainstream awards has been challenging for many South Asian artists. However, this year’s nominations showcase a remarkable achievement, with Indian releases claiming three out of six spots in the Best Global Music Album category.
The nominees include Siddhant Bhatia’s devotional collection, the jazz-fusion band Shakti’s live album, and a classical-fusion EP by Anoushka Shankar, Alam Khan, and Sarathy Korwar. These artists have not only captured the attention of the Grammy voters but have also inspired a new generation of musicians.
But here’s where it gets interesting: Indian and South Asian artists have been making waves in various genres. While the focus is often on Global Music, they have also won Grammys in Alternative Jazz, Children’s Music, Folk, and even Immersive Audio. A. R. Rahman’s iconic soundtrack for Slumdog Millionaire is a testament to their versatility.
And this is the part most people miss: the Indian artists with the most Grammy nominations. Zubin Mehta, a conductor with an impressive 18 nominations, has yet to win a Grammy. Anoushka Shankar, with 13 nominations, is close behind, and her recent nods might just bring her the first win.
The legacy of Ravi Shankar, Anoushka’s father, is also worth noting. He won the prestigious Album of the Year award in 1973, but under today’s rules, he might not have been eligible.
So, what does this mean for the future of South Asian music at the Grammys? With a growing number of nominations and a diverse range of genres represented, it’s an exciting time for fans and artists alike.
Do you think the Grammys are finally catching up with the global music scene? Let’s discuss in the comments!