Pope Francis has released Sarvesa, a groundbreaking spiritual music album featuring a Sanskrit rendition of the Lord’s Prayer, during a prestigious event in Rome. Produced by Chetana Ganashram, Thrissur, the project is a collaborative effort by Fr. Dr. Paul Poovathingal CMI, also known as the Singing Priest of India, and three-time Grammy participant and renowned violinist Manoj George. This marks the first time an Indian musical album has been released by the Pope.

The album's centerpiece is a Sanskrit hymn, Svargasthānaya Pithāvē (“Our Father in Heaven”), adapted from the Sanskrit epic Kristubhāgavatham by the late Prof. P.C. Devassia. This hymn, composed in the Carnatic raga Natabhairavi, bridges Indian classical and Western musical traditions. The orchestration was led by Manoj George, featuring contributions from celebrated flautist Rakesh Chaurasia and Hollywood musicians. Grammy-winning composer Ricky Kej co-produced the track, which was recorded and mastered across studios in Mumbai, Florida, and Los Angeles.

The vocals bring together an extraordinary ensemble of Padma Vibhushan Dr. K.J. Yesudas, Fr. Poovathingal, and a choir of 100 priests and 100 nuns, symbolizing a harmonious spiritual unity.

Beyond its artistic brilliance, Sarvesa serves a noble cause. Developed under the principles of Neurologic Music Therapy, the project aims to aid children with autism, cerebral palsy, and other mental challenges in their brain development. Proceeds from the album will support therapeutic initiatives at Chetana Ganashram, underscoring its mission of uplifting the differently-abled.

Pope Francis unveiled the album by signing a commemorative plaque presented by Fr. Poovathingal and Manoj George during an international conference at the Vatican. This historic release celebrates the universality of prayer and the deep inculturation of Christianity into Indian traditions.

Speaking to Catholic Connect, Fr. Poovathingal highlighted the significance of Sanskrit in the project, saying that as Christians, they have deeply inculturated themselves into local traditions, and the project showcases the richness of Indian Christian culture by blending language, music, and spirituality in a harmonious way.

The journey of creating Sarvesa was not without its challenges. Coordinating 100 priests and nuns for the recordings and navigating logistical hurdles was a formidable task. However, Fr. Poovathingal emphasized the role of divine providence, explaining that every step was a testament to God’s grace, from collaborations to the album reaching Pope Francis.

The release of Sarvesa marks a milestone in global spirituality, showcasing the unifying power of music and prayer. This remarkable collaboration between Indian and Western traditions celebrates cultural harmony, inspires faith, and offers healing through music.