Anuradha Pal — World’s First Female Tabla Maestro, Pioneer—Stree Shakti (first all female band)

A child prodigy, Anuradha first performed with me in 1989 and has also performed with sons Amaan and Ayaan many times thereafter.

Anuradha’s acceptance in the male-dominated world speaks volumes of her talent and indomitable spirit, further establishing her as an inspirational youth icon.

Talented, respected, humble, and loved by all, Anuradha undoubtedly is one of the finest Tabla maestros of our country, despite being a girl without lineage in a male-dominated field. This is an extraordinary feat and a matter of great pride!

A fantastic accompanist and vibrant soloist, there is hardly a musician of repute she has not performed with. Her soft-spoken, respectful and adjusting nature makes her very special.

For Anuradha, Tabla is not just her profession but her passion. Her beautiful tonal quality, relentless riyaaz and humility make her a role model for women and youth.

A favourite ganda-bandhan shagird of Ustad Alla Rakha & Zakirbhai, Anuradha plays Punjab Gharana and all five gharanas beautifully. May God take her to even greater heights.

Anuradha Pal, the world’s first female Tabla maestro, plays flawlessly across genres — from classical to fusion to folk to world. With scintillating solos, global collaborations, and her pioneering all-women band Stree Shakti, she has made India proud while also serving society with compassion like her nationalistic family has.

With focus, dedicated riyaaz and mind-blowing talent, Anuradha has taken her art to incredible heights in a male-dominated field. Absolutely inspirational.

Anuradha is versatile, creative, and always uplifting on stage — a true asset to Indian classical music.

A fabulous performer, generous teacher, and force of her own, creating brilliant students, Anuradha has made Abbaji and Zakirbhai so very proud.

One of the most dynamic personalities of Indian classical music — a generous soul who gives joy through her heavenly compositions.

Your consistent Guru shraddha, bhakti and samarpan towards your profession are really rare. Coupled with your parents’ unflinching support, these have made you the committed professional whom everybody admires — especially as the world’s first female professional Tabla player.

It is very difficult to make a name in music and you have done it. Abbaji was always very proud of you, and we as a family feel very proud of what you have achieved, despite all odds.

Anuradha has been working for the preservation of arts and social empowerment of women and marginalized folk and tribal artistes. The female ‘Zakira’, Anuradha has accompanied my Kathak dance performances beautifully with incredible commitment and creativity.

More legends’ tributes coming soon.