Los Angeles | The 68th Grammy Awards 2026 opened in grand style in Los Angeles, bringing together global music icons for the biggest night in the international music calendar. Hosted by comedian Trevor Noah, the ceremony featured electrifying performances, bold fashion statements, and historic wins, even as Indian artists returned home without trophies despite multiple nominations.
The evening sparkled with star power as Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Pharrell Williams and other industry heavyweights lit up the stage. Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter delivered a lively performance of her hit Manchild, appearing in a retro flight-attendant-inspired outfit that drew loud applause. Alex Warren also impressed the audience with his performance of Ordinary.
Kendrick Lamar Creates History
Rapper Kendrick Lamar made Grammy history by winning Best Rap Album, becoming the most awarded rapper in Grammy history and surpassing the long-standing record held by Jay-Z. He also shared Record of the Year with SZA for their collaboration Luther, cementing his dominance at the awards.
Dalai Lama Wins First Grammy
In a landmark moment, Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama won his first-ever Grammy Award in the Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording category. The award was for his album Meditation: The Reflections of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Expressing gratitude, he described the honour as a recognition of universal responsibility, compassion, peace, environmental protection, and the unity of humanity.
Disappointment for Indian Artists
India had a notable presence at the nominations stage, with artists such as Anoushka Shankar, Siddhant Bhatia, Shakti, and Charu Suri earning nods across categories. However, none managed to secure a win. Anoushka Shankar, nominated for Best Global Music Performance, lost out to Bad Bunny’s track EoO.
Justin Bieber’s Power Comeback
Justin Bieber marked a major comeback at the Grammys with a high-energy performance of YUKON. Appearing in a shirtless look, the pop star commanded the stage, drawing thunderous applause from the audience. Clips of his performance quickly went viral on social media.
Lady Gaga Sets the Stage on Fire
Lady Gaga delivered a dramatic rock-infused performance of Abracadabra from her 2025 album Mayhem. Her bold visuals and intense stage presence made the act one of the night’s most talked-about moments. Gaga also won Best Pop Vocal Album and Song of the Year.
Fashion Highlights
Singer Chappell Roan grabbed attention with a bold fashion statement, wearing a sheer maroon outfit complemented by nipple rings, minimal jewellery, signature red curls, and striking black-and-gold heels. Her daring look became a major talking point on the red carpet.
Key Winners at the Grammys 2026
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Best Rap Album: Kendrick Lamar
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Best Pop Vocal Album: Lady Gaga (Mayhem)
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Best Contemporary Country Album: Jelly Roll
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Record of the Year: Kendrick Lamar & SZA (Luther)
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Song of the Year: Lady Gaga (Abracadabra)
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Best Música Urbana Album: Bad Bunny
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Best New Artist: Olivia Dean
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Best Pop Solo Performance: Lola Young (Messy)
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Album of the Year: Bad Bunny (DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS)
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Best Audio Book/Narration: Dalai Lama
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Lifetime Achievement Award: Cher
Despite the disappointment for Indian nominees, Grammys 2026 will be remembered for its powerful performances, historic wins, and a night that celebrated music across cultures and genres.
