Indian Council for
Cultural Relations
New Delhi
12 May 2020
Press Release
“United We Fight”
The Indian Council for Cultural
Relations (ICCR) brings together composers, musicians and singers from across
India, contributing recordings from their homes, in a beautiful musical
creation “United we Fight”. Written and composed by Joe Alvares, vocals by
Usha Uthup, Salim Merchant, Shefali Alvares Rashid, Benny Dayal, Sonam Kalra,
Chandan Bala Kalyan, Joe Alvares, Salome and Samira, and music by Tubby, Pandit
Ravi Chari, Pandit Rakesh Chaurasiya and Ustad Faisal Qureshi, this song is a
rendition weaving English lyrics into the notes and beats of Indian classical
music, spreading the essence of Vasudhaiva
Kutumbakam - the world is one family. It carries with it the message of
hope, joy, resilience, fighting spirit and never say die attitude of all in our
collective fight against COVID 19.
2. This virus has had
a huge impact on humanity cutting across all boundaries, physical and social,
of nations, caste, class, colour, religion and belief systems bringing the
world to its knees. But United We Stand, steadfastly helping, assisting,
sharing knowledge, cooperating and coordinating with each other, cutting across
boundaries fighting as one force against the Corona virus.
3. This composition is
an expression of our deep appreciation and gratitude to all brave COVID
warriors world over risking their lives to protect ours. It is a homage to all
the artists and performers who represent the cultural legacy of our countries
and who contribute to keep our cultural heritage vibrant and alive, especially
in these difficult times. It is a tribute to and recognition of the countless
individuals who are silently helping neighbours, strangers and people around
them in these times of distress. A message to the world that together we shall
surely win the fight against the Corona virus and many such challenges that
humanity and the human race faces.
4. Light a candle,
cheer the frontline workers, donate for the needy, spare time for the elderly,
be available to volunteer; whichever way, we hope you enjoy this rendition and
be inspired enough to continue this “United Fight”.
5. This song is
dedicated to the world by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India. ICCR
is MEA’s autonomous organization mandated to build international understanding,
develop closer cultural relations between India and other countries and project
India’s soft power abroad.
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