ICCR launches ‘United We Fight’ as a message of hope

Amid the coronavirus crisis, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) recently launched the song, United We Fight, bringing composers, musicians and singers from across India together.

The artistes recorded their parts of the song from their respective homes. Penned and composed by Joe Alvares, vocalists Usha Uthup, Salim Merchant, Shefali Alvares Rashid, Benny Dayal, Sonam Kalra, Chandan Bala Kalyan, Joe Alvares, Salome and Samira lent their voices to the song, while Tubby, Pandit Ravi Chary, Pandit Rakesh Chaurasia and Ustad Faisal Qureshi arranged the music.  

The song is a musical presentation, interlacing English lyrics into the notes and beats of Indian classical music. It carries the message of hope, positivity and resilience as we battle the pandemic.

It salutes the frontline professionals serving and protecting humanity, while risking their lives daily at this time of crisis. It also pays homage to all the artistes and performers who represent the cultural legacy of India, especially in these difficult times.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) of India dedicated the song to the whole world, stating, "United we stand, steadfastly helping, assisting, sharing knowledge, cooperating and coordinating with each other, cutting across boundaries fighting as one force against the coronavirus." ICCR is MEA's autonomous organisation mandated to build international understanding and develop closer cultural relations between India and other countries of the world.