Hollywood, CA — Sufi-rock super group visionary Imran Raza of Sonic Ashtanga stood joyous and elated when they won Best in World Music at the 3 rd Annual Hollywood in Music and Media Awards (HMMA) November 17th, at the Highlands in the Kodak Theater Complex in Hollywood.

“Thank you to my parents and the musicians that worked on the record including Sanam Marvi, Mekaal Hasan, Ahsan Pabu, Rahat Ali Khan, and Anton Pushansky. We are so excited,” stated Raza.

This is triumphant recognition for Sonic Ashtanga who opened HMMA with an enchanting seven-minute performance that featured the group’s winning song “Be Like The Onion.”

The audience was warmed by Raza’s smooth voice in combination with the musical eastern and western assembly of the sitar, tabla, harmonica, powerful Indian vocals of Mala Ganguli, drums, bass, electric guitar, amidst the band’s many illustrious dancers. It was an energizing performance to kick-off the ceremony.

The HMMA uniquely recognizes and celebrates excellence in music supervision and awards individuals with outstanding career achievements in entertainment media. The star-studded, red carpet event also honored legendary Motown musician Smokey Robinson with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

For Sonic Ashtanga and Raza, their award moves them further in their mission to facilitate harmony amongst cultures through music, dance, and art — specifically in Pakistan. The group has collaborated with legendary icons in rock including Slash and Gilby Clarke of Guns n’ Roses, Santana, and Pat Boone.

Additionally, Raza’s newly launched organization, Bridges of Harmony, is partnered with the HMMA to drive its founding value that music can be harnessed to perpetuate real, positive shifts in perceptions across cultures.

Sonic Ashtanga’s opening performance at the HMMA will be aired on MTV and popular music television networks in both India and Pakistan throughout the coming months.