Tribe Verified

A Legacy of Firsts: My Awards & Cultural Recognition

byAnuradha PalAvailable online, at Juhu studio, and travels across IndiaStarts from2,000 per 2-day workshop passView full gallery

I am deeply humbled that my journey in Indian classical music has been recognized with over 108 national and international honors. These awards, including the 'First Ladies Award' from the President of India, are not just milestones; they represent the progress of women in music and the enduring power of our rhythm.

A truly surreal experience to receive the 'First Ladies Award' from the Honourable President of India. This award recognized me as India's Cultural Ambassador for being the first female professional tabla virtuoso to perform at iconic global festivals like Woodstock and WOMAD.

This collage represents some of the most cherished blessings in my journey. It includes the letter from PM Narendra Modi ji, his 'Bharat ki Lakshmi' tweet, and the 'First Ladies Award' from the President, all of which inspire me every single day.

A cherished memory of receiving the Kala Srijak Award from Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar ji and the Honourable Minister of Tourism and Culture. Being recognized on such a grand stage at the Art of Living World Culture Festival was a profound honor.

This signed letter from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, received on International Women's Day, was a monumental honor. It recognized my journey and my role in taking Indian music to the global stage.

This collection of early press clippings tells the story of my beginnings. From being called 'Lady Zakir Hussain' to the Limca Book of Records recognizing me as the 'first female professional Tabla player', these articles document the struggle and determination to break stereotypes.

I am grateful to publications like Beatcurry for highlighting the work of my foundation, APCF. This article, "Music For The Mind, Body & Soul," beautifully explains our mission to create a symphony of wellness through music.

This video is a montage of over 108 awards and honors I have received. Each one, from performing for Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam to being graded a 'Top Grade Vidushi' artist, is a story of passion, hard work, and the joy of sharing music.

'My Tabla Story' is a short film of my journey, from being a child prodigy to collaborating with legends and creating my own musical bands like Stree Shakti. It's a story of combating discrimination and striving for excellence in Indian classical music.

A group photograph with the President of India and all the other incredible awardees of the 'First Ladies Award'. It was inspiring to be in the company of so many women who have excelled and become the first in their respective fields.

Receiving the Kaustubh Kala Ratna award from Banaras Hindu University (BHU), an institution with a rich legacy, was an immense honor. It was a blessing to perform for the esteemed faculty and students of this historic university.

About A Legacy of Firsts: Awards & Recognition

While these awards—from being hailed as 'Bharat ki Lakshmi' by our Prime Minister to receiving the 'First Ladies Award'—highlight the milestones of my career, my true reward is the path I have helped clear for future generations. Receiving these honors often sparks questions about how to build a professional life in music, so if you are exploring a career in the arts or looking to engage an expert speaker for a cultural event, I am here to share the practical experience I have gained over decades of performing and teaching.

Similar work from other experts

Browse through Curated picks from other experts on mytribe

Explore my musical journey

Search for specific performances, workshops, or event types.