Thomson Andrews Collective’s choir render ‘Vande Mataram’
Guitarist, composer and fusion artist Susmit Sen. Photo: Courtesy of the artist
Indian Ocean co-founder and guitarist-composer Susmit Sen marks Republic Day with the release of his latest collection of songs Azaadi. He says in a statement, “In these times, we should start reflecting about freedom as an idea and the freedom that we really have and cherish. With Azaadi, I wanted to create music that encourages listeners to reflect, feel, and connect at a deeper level.”
Released as separate singles on streaming platforms (with a launch gig at the Museum of Goa with his band, Susmit Sen Chronicles), Azaadi comprises four tracks – “Azaadi” with vocalist Sudheer Rikhari, “Mazaar” with vocalist Gayathri Natarajan, “Saiba Tandela” and “Kuvar” with vocalist M.D. Pallavi and lyrics by Goa-based songwriter Umesh Sardessai. The tracks traverse three languages, Konkani, Tamil, and Sanskrit.
Trust a master sitarist and composer like Hidayat Khan to bring a soulful, six-minute rendition of the Indian National Anthem on Republic Day. Joined by tabla artist Avirodh Sharma and producer Ayon Ghosh, Khan leads a vocal portion on the track himself. He says in a statement about the release, “The National Anthem was such an intrinsic part of my school days and I was filled with nostalgia when I was invited to perform it at an event in New York City. That experience then inspired me to reinterpret and record this version.”
He adds, “The composition begins with a meditative alaap and takes the listener right into the core values that define India’s historical evolution. The rhythmic tabla patterns capture our nation’s joyous diversity. It peaks with a fast-paced jhala, representing India’s dynamic energy, before culminating in a solo symbolizing unity in diversity.”
From the days of A.R. Rahman’s rendition to today, “Vande Mataram” remains a go-to pick for artists to interpret. Singer Thomson Andrews and his collective lead an atmospheric, cinematic version with A capella vocals (Andrews joining the nine-minute choir) and guitar. The artist says in the video description, “Each singer from TAC Choir represents a unique facet of our nation, harmonizing beautifully to create an emotional tribute that resonates with every Indian heart. This rendition uplifts the soul and rekindles the patriotic fervor within us all. Let the power of music unite us and reignite our love for India!”
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