Awards, Honours and Media Features
My musical journey has been defined by a constant pursuit of excellence and the privilege of representing Indian heritage on global platforms. These milestones reflect decades of devotion to the Tabla.
I was humbled to receive the prestigious 'First Ladies Award' from the Honourable President of India in 2018. This award recognized me as the first female professional tabla virtuoso and the youngest Indian musician to perform at festivals like Woodstock and WOMAD.
A photo of me holding the 'First Ladies Award'. This honour was for exceptional women who transcended barriers to become the first in their fields, and I dedicate it to my Gurus and my family.
The official group photograph with the President of India and all the other incredible awardees at the 'First Ladies Award' ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhawan. It was an inspiring gathering of women who have made history.
With fellow awardees at the 'First Ladies Award' ceremony. It was an honour to be in the company of such accomplished women from various fields.
With the legendary singer K.S. Chithra at the 'First Ladies Award' event. Sharing this moment with artists I admire was a truly special part of the experience.
A graphic from MyGov India recognizing me as a 'Bharat ki Laxmi'. This honour, conferred in 2019, celebrated my journey as the first Indian female tabla player to perform at WOMAD and my 'First Ladies' National Award.
A screenshot of the tweet from MyGovIndia, hailing me as 'Bharat ki Laxmi'. I am deeply thankful to PM Modi ji, the Ministry of Culture, and the Ministry of WCD for this recognition.
About this collection
These accolades are far more than professional milestones to me. Each represents a moment where I stood up for women in music, from being named the first female professional tabla player by the Limca Book of Records to performing on stages like Woodstock. They are tangible reminders of the path I carved in a traditionally male-dominated space, and I hope they serve as a message to aspiring artists that perseverance in your craft eventually leads to recognition.
Being a musician is often about the hours of riyaaz (practice) that nobody sees, but these awards provide a humbling pause to look back at the journey. Among the most cherished recognitions is the 'First Ladies Award' conferred by the President of India, acknowledging my role as the first female professional tabla virtuoso. Being named 'Bharat ki Laxmi' by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji for representing India’s cultural spirit was another surreal moment that solidified my resolve to keep pushing boundaries.
My work has also taken me to the World Culture Festival, where I was honoured with the 'Kala Srijak Award' by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji. Beyond the trophies, the media recognition—features in The Guardian, Rolling Stone, and the BBC—matters deeply because it signifies that Indian classical music is resonating across borders and bridging the gap between tradition and modern soundscapes.
Whether it is the 'Outstanding Category' recognition from ICCR or the joy of having my story included in books like 'Women of Pure Wonder', I view these honours as a shared victory for every girl who dreams of making a career in the arts. My goal remains simple: to continue performing, teaching at my Gurukul, and using rhythm to heal and inspire, ensuring that the legacy of my Gurus, Ustad Allarakha ji and Ustad Zakir Hussain ji, continues to thrive.
Anuradha Pal
I am a professional Tabla player, dedicated to sharing the soul of Indian rhythm with the world. My life’s work involves performing, teaching, and creating platforms for women to thrive in classical music. I believe every beat of the tabla has the power to heal, connect, and tell the stories of our heritage.
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