Leslee Lewis Honored as Modi Gifts ‘Colonial Cousins’ Vinyl to Australian Prime Minister
Mumbai — Music composer Leslee Lewis has expressed his delight after Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with a collector’s edition vinyl of the “Colonial Cousins” album during his official visit to Australia.
Released in the 1990s, the album by Lewis and Hariharan blended Indian classical music with Western pop, rock and acoustic influences, helping popularize Indian fusion music.
“I never imagined that the music we created from the heart would one day become part of such a historic moment between two nations. To know that Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi chose the Colonial Cousins collector’s edition vinyl as a diplomatic gift is an honour beyond words,” Lewis said.
“I am deeply thankful to him for recognising the universal language of music and for allowing our work to represent India’s artistic legacy on the world stage. Moments like these reaffirm that music is far more than entertainment, it is a cultural ambassador that continues to unite hearts across borders and generations,” he added.
Hariharan said the recognition demonstrated the album’s lasting cultural impact more than three decades after its release.
“Every artist hopes that their music will stand the test of time, but very few are fortunate enough to see it become part of a nation’s cultural journey. I am truly honoured and grateful to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for choosing the Colonial Cousins collector’s edition vinyl as a symbol of India’s friendship and cultural pride. It is deeply touching to see an album created with love, respect and musical harmony continue to carry India’s voice to the world. This recognition is a tribute not only to Leslee and me, but also to every listener whose love has kept Colonial Cousins alive through the years,” Hariharan said.
The collector’s edition represents the enduring popularity of “Colonial Cousins” and India’s use of music and art to strengthen cultural ties with other countries. (Source: IANS)
