PM Modi meets, congratulates Ricky Kej for Grammy win

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday invited internationally acclaimed musician Ricky Kej to personally congratulate him on his win at the 57th Grammy Awards earlier this year.

Kej had won the prestigious award for his 2014 album "Winds of Samsara", which bagged the Best New Age Album trophy at Los Angeles in February.

"PM Narendra Modi's office had invited me for a meet and greet. I came in today morning. He was extremely gracious and generous with his time. We had a 45-minute-long, private meeting with the PM, my wife and me. He said it is not just an award for me, but also for the whole country. We talked music, philosophy and it was a really great time," Kej told IANS about his meeting with the prime minister in a telephonic interview.

Kej, who also composed a special version of the national anthem for the PM, said he felt great to receive recognition for his work from the country and from the head of government.

"(It's wonderful) to get recognition from your own country and from the head of the government, so what more can an artist ask for? It was a very emotional moment for me," he added.

Although "Winds of Samara" blends in the creative influences of the cultures to generate a sound of calmness and positivity, Kej said his music is "primarily Indian".

"My music is primarily Indian. I am grateful to the PM for giving me his time. It is amazing that he liked my music and the philosophies behind it. He was so well informed, he knows everything, that's the end of it," he added.