ITC celebrates the diversity of India with the song ‘Desh Ek Raag’

On the occasion of India’s 78^th Independence Day, ITC Ltd, has released a unique musical composition, Desh Ek Raag performed by the Gurus and Shishyas of the ITC Sangeet Research Academy (ITC-SRA).

The soulful composition captures the confluence of Hindustani Classical Music forms, rooted in the cultural traditions of the country. The musical ensemble innovatively combines western and Indian instrumental accompaniments to play Hindustani Classical tunes in order to contemporise Indian classical music for the younger generations.

The composition, rendered in a musical video, was shared by Mr. Sanjiv Puri, Chairman of ITC, through a post on LinkedIn.  Performed by ITC-SRA Gurus and scholars, in collaboration with other artists, the special composition is an ode to the Nation, in which Parampara and Pragati (Tradition & Progress); Viraasat and Vikas (Heritage & Development) go hand-in hand.

In line with ITC's motto of 'Nation First: Sab Saath Badhein', which underscores the Company's core belief in creating inclusive and enduring value for the nation, the Desh Ek Raag initiative is testimony to ITC’s commitment to contribute meaningfully to preserve, nurture and promote India’s rich heritage of Hindustani Classical Music.

Crafted by some of ITC-SRA’s Gurus, the special composition is based on Raag Desh, which is an integral part of Vande Mataram – the National Song of India. 

Mr. Sanjiv Puri, Chairman, ITC Ltd., shared his views on the initiative saying, “I am delighted that, as a tribute to our country on the occasion of the 78^th Independence Day, ITC Sangeet Research Academy (ITC-SRA) has created a special composition, presented in the form of a music video ‘Desh Ek Raag – an Ode to the Nation’. This musical masterpiece by the talented scholars of ITC-SRA draws inspiration from Raag Desh, stirring a profound sense of pride and admiration for our great nation.”

The selection of young artists, varied instruments and diverse musical genres from across the country for the composition is testimony to the confluence of ‘the modern’ and ‘the traditional’ in today’s India.  Through the unifying power of music, the video seeks to convey the core ethos of ITC-SRA - to keep Hindustani Classical Music relevant among newer generations of music lovers.

Established in 1977, ITC-SRA, over the decades, has grown in impact and significance, reinforcing ITC’s sustained commitment to preserving the national musical heritage. Today, ITC-SRA houses more than 40 scholars in its sprawling Kolkata campus.

ITC-SRA will be celebrating its Golden Jubilee in 2027.