Dalai Lama wins first-ever Grammy Award for audiobook 'Meditations'

New Delhi: The Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama won his first Grammy at the age of 90 in the audiobook, narration and storytelling recording category at the 68th edition of the awards.

In which category Dalai Lama won?

Dalai Lama won his first-ever Grammy, which left many people wondering and curious about how a spiritual leader made his way onto music awards.

At the 68th Grammy Awards, which held on February 1 at Los Angeles, the Buddhist leader won in the Best Audiobook, Narration, and Storytelling Recording category, beating nominees including US Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, Trevor Noah, Kathy Garver and Fab Morvan.

Who all were the nominees?

• The Dalai Lama for 'Meditations: The Reflections Of His Holiness The Dalai Lama'
• Trevor Noah for 'Into The Uncut Grass'
• Ketanji Brown Jackson for 'Lovely One: A Memoir'
• Kathy Garver for 'Elvis, Rocky & Me: The Carol Connors Story'
• Fab Morvan for 'You Know It's True: The Real Story Of Milli Vanilli' 

Who accepted the award?

Singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright, who was part of the album, accepted the Grammy award on the behalf of Dalai Lama. 

While accepting the award Rufus Wainwright jokingly said, "I am not the Dalai Lama, obviously."

Later Rufus thanked the organisers for the opportunity and expressed gratitude for being a part of the project that is rooted in wisdom, reflection and compassion. "It was a privilege to participate on this project," he said.

He further also expressed honour on receiving the award on behalf of the Buddhist leader

The award was announced during the  Premiere Ceremony, a pre-telecast show held at the adjacent Peacock Theater.

"Meditations: The Reflections of His Holiness the Dalai Lama" brings together Dalai Lama’s teachings into an immersive listening experience, blending spiritual reflection with musical elements.

What did the Dalai Lama say?

After receiving the award, the Dalai Lama's office posted a message from the Tibetan leader.

"I receive this recognition with gratitude and humility. I don't see it as something personal, but as a recognition of our shared universal responsibility. I truly believe that peace, compassion, care for our environment, and an understanding of the oneness of humanity are essential for the collective well-being of all eight billion human beings. I'm grateful that this Grammy recognition can help spread these messages more widely."