Padmashree Kumar Sanu records Vande Mataram in Hollywood with California based Composer Sandeep Khurana

India: Renowned California-based musician and producer Sandeep Khurana recently finished his much-anticipated collaboration with iconic Indian singer Padmashree Shri Kumar Sanu for a song, which was recorded in a Hollywood studio in July 2023. In this conjoined effort, Kumar Sanu, who has lent his voice to some of the most enduring melodies from the late 80s and 90s, has sung a patriotic song penned and composed by Sandeep Khurana. Released on the occasion of the upcoming Independence Day, this latest composition by Khurana, titled ‘Vande Mataram, is a rousing tribute to the artist’s motherland and the people of India. The song explores themes of expressing love, regard, pride, and gratitude for the motherland.

Further adding to the star power behind this musical endeavour, the song was produced by Bappa B. Lahiri, the son of the music legend Bappi Lahiri. Representative of Sandeep’s musical repertoire, which strives to blend the best of the Indian and Western musical systems, ‘Vande Mataram’ will also showcase a fusion between the classic Indian melody form and Western orchestration. The song begins with a poem, written and recited by Sandeep, while the core melody is carried by Kumar Sanu and Sandeep’s winning voices. In this composition, a treat for fans of both Khurana and Sanu, the soothing format of the Indian melody has found an awe-inspiring and patriotic undertone with elements of the orchestra, such as strings, beats, pads, synths, and layers of chorus.

Apart from the audio release across streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Gaana, and Saavn, ‘Vande Mataram’ will also feature in a short documentary film by Sandeep Khurana. The film will revolve around India, its rich cultural and spiritual heritage, and how the country has made great progress over the years.

About the collaboration, Mr. Khurana said, "I am thrilled to have collaborated with the versatile genius of Kumar Sanu for this one-of-a-kind track, where for the first time an Indian Patriotic song has been recorded in a Hollywood song. As unusual, he has enhanced the composition with his beautiful, textured voice, which, with its emotional appeal, has won our hearts for several decades. Moreover, towards the success of the song, Bappa B. Lahiri, who proudly furthers his father’s legacy, brought to the table his keen sense of fusion between Eastern and Western sounds. I have worked on many projects with Bappa B. Lahiri, and it’s always interesting to be involved in his endeavours."

Similar enthusiasm was heard when, on being asked about his experience with ‘Vande Mataram’, Kumar Sanu said, "I am very happy to sing the song. Sandeep-ji’s composition is very good and melodious, and it's been a while since I've had the opportunity to sing a melodious song. I am sure when listeners listen to this song, Vande Mataram, they will feel great patriotism and love for India." On the other hand, as the producer of the song, Bappa B. Lahiri, commented, "It was a great opportunity to be able to back this unique production. Sandeep has always had a great ear for melody, while the legendary talent of Kumar Sanu needs no introduction. Most importantly, I was excited to produce a patriotic song in a Hollywood studio, as that would show how far the soft power of the Indian music industry has traveled."

Further outlining the inspiration behind the song, Sandeep commented, "India is going through a massive churn, which is set to gear the country in a very positive direction. Thinking of the exciting times ahead and distilling my deep sentiments for my country, I was inspired to pen and compose this song. Further, apart from expressing my deep love for India, the song, in a way, summarizes what my life and career represent: a balance between Indianness and cosmopolitanism. The fusion-based soundscape of the composition denotes that as a growing country, India is slowly influencing trends and thoughts across the globe." On that note, he added, "I mean, look at my career trajectory itself: I was born in Delhi, and today, as a resident of California, I am making music for the world. Similarly, Kumar Sanu and Bappa B Lahiri, who are both deeply rooted in the musical ethos of India, are recording a patriotic album in Hollywood studios, appealing to people all over the world. What better way to show the spirit of modern India? Also, this shows that, regardless of where you are, your love for the country persists. I hope that those who will listen to the song will also feel the deep love and respect for India that I and my collaborators share."

Apart from the patriotic song, Sandeep created a musical wave amongst his fans with his recent songwriting project, sung and composed by the renowned singers Sadhana Sargam and Bappa B. Lahiri, respectively. The series of his latest releases indicate how dedicated Sandeep is to his craft, and he says that in the coming years as well, he will continue to produce great music. Winner of several notable awards, including Special Jury Awards in music from the UK Songwriting Contest and USA Songwriting Contests, Sandeep has an extensive portfolio of over 100 albums, ranging from new-age, psychedelic, rock, and rhythm-n-blues to world music. An alumnus of the renowned Ali Akbar College of Music in California, Sandeep continuously draws his musical inspiration from various traditions and generates massive traction across streaming platforms with his music. Similarly, attesting to his film-making prowess, he is the proud recipient of accolades such as the Special Jury Award at the Dada Saheb Phalke Film Festival 2022, the Best Film Awards at the Francisco Arthouse Short Festival, and the Paris Cinema Awards.