Bollywood Music Legends Hail Clef Music Awards 2025 for Elevating Independent Talent

Mumbai witnessed a spectacular celebration of India’s independent music scene as the 5th edition of the Clef Music Awards 2025 concluded with roaring applause from the industry’s most respected figures. Bollywood stalwarts like Anu Malik, Daboo Malik, Shalmali Kholgade, Jigar Saraiya, and Armaan Malik came forward to laud the platform for its unwavering dedication to independent artists. Their collective support underscored the growing significance of platforms that empower musicians beyond mainstream commercial avenues, shining a spotlight on India’s diverse and rich musical heritage.

The awards, supported by the Indian Performing Right Society Limited as a community partner, recognized over 100 artists across 50+ categories. From devotional melodies to cutting-edge rap, the ceremony spanned genres, languages, and regions, reflecting the sheer vibrancy of India’s music landscape. Among the night’s biggest winners, Sumeet Tappoo emerged as a standout, sweeping awards in Devotional, Ghazal, and Classical categories, while the Rap sensation Hanumankind bagged accolades for “Big Dawgs” and “Run It Up,” cementing their dominance in the genre.

What made CMA 2025 particularly remarkable was its commitment to regional diversity. Artists like S.J. Jananiy claimed victories in Kannada and Tamil categories, showcasing talent rooted in South Indian traditions. K3M’s triumph in the English rock segment and Abiogenesis’s recognition for contributions in the Naga language highlighted how the awards championed linguistic variety, giving voice to creators from every corner of the country. This emphasis on diversity reaffirmed Clef Music Awards’ mission to celebrate music in all its forms, beyond mainstream Bollywood boundaries.

Industry veterans were not just passive observers. Anu Malik and Daboo Malik expressed admiration for the platform’s role in encouraging young talent, while Shalmali Kholgade highlighted how independent musicians are shaping India’s evolving music identity. Jigar Saraiya praised the ceremony’s meticulous curation and the equal importance given to both emerging and seasoned artists, reinforcing CMA’s reputation as a credible stage for musical excellence. Armaan Malik, representing the younger generation of performers, reiterated the significance of nurturing a space where passion and originality take precedence over commercial metrics.

The evening also paid tribute to instrumentalists and niche genres that often remain underrepresented in mainstream media. Renowned flautist Ronu Majumdar and vocalists like Vaishali Samant and Shibani Kashyap were seen appreciating the platform’s commitment to honoring nuanced artistry. By giving these artists a national stage, CMA 2025 ensured that India’s musical tapestry, from classical strains to experimental beats, was celebrated in all its depth and richness.

As the night drew to a close, the Clef Music Awards 2025 reinforced its position as a pioneer in championing independent music. By bridging the gap between regional talent and national recognition, and by earning the respect of industry giants, the awards have become more than a ceremony—they are a movement celebrating the spirit of creativity, diversity, and dedication that defines India’s independent music scene.

Check the full winner’s list of CMA 2025 here.