Pandit Chatur Lal Memorial Society

Pandit Chatur Lal Memorial Society Pandit Chatur Lal was the 1st internationally acclaimed Indian percussionist. Late Pandit Chatur Lal who was the first internationally acclaimed percussionist.

Pandit Chatur Lalji, Bharat Ratna Pandit Ravi Shankarji & Ustad Ali Akbar Khan Sahib were the first Indian musicians to take Indian classical music to the West in mid 50s’. when they were invited to perform all over Europe and also in Modern of Museum Art, Ford Foundation and Omnibus in New York. Pandit Chatur Lal was the first Indian musician on whom solo LP records was made by Hollywood in 19

57 and the first ever fusion concert between Eastern and Western drums was featured by Pt. Chatur Lal on tabla and Philly Joe Jones on Drums who is also known as God of Drums. This recording can be viewed Library of Congress, Washington DC , USA. With the untimely death of the Stalwart in 1965 at a young age of 40, a charitable society was formed in 1990 to commemorate the memory and work of illustrious Late Pandit Chatur Lal one of the pioneer musicians who paved the way for Indian percussion tabla in the Western World. We are a society engaged in preservation of our heritage by promoting Indian Classical Music for more than two decades, is the prime institution of the national capital in this field. The society also promotes upcoming musicians by giving them a good platform and sharing the stage with Legends of our country. The society has also accomplishes in making a museum on Pandit Chatur Lal "Taa-Dhaa" in his modest house in South Extension Part II, New Delhi (that he built shortly before his death) to give him a rebirth in the hearts of music lovers and for the younger generation to come. This happens to be the first ever museum on any Indian percussionist in the world. It was inaugurated by Smt. Sheila Diksh*t ji, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Delhi on 29th November, 2009. Recently 1 k.m road on his name “Pandit Chatur Lal Road“ sanctioned by our Chief Minister Smt. Sheila Diksh*t from ring road to his Museum “TAA-DHAA” which was inaugurated on 16th April, 2011 being the 85 th birth anniversary that day. This is further being followed by reviving of "Pandit Chatur Lal Excellence Award" which was initiated by American Embassy - Former His Excellency Mr. & Mrs. Chester Bowles followed with Mr. & Mrs. John Kenneth Galbraith (American Ambassador’s to India in 1960's during their visit at that time) in his honor after his sudden demise. The awards,2011 were felicitated to Kathak Queen Smt. Sitara Devi, Kathak Lagend Pt. Birju Maharaj,(Kathak is form of Indian dance); Sarod Maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and Famous Hindustani Vocalist Pt. Rajan Mishra & Pt. Sajan Mishra. There are some more endeavours which the society is taking on and soon would be accomplished.

18/04/2026

Maestro Sivamani opens his heart on the legacy of Pandit Chatur Lal, and the profound blessing of performing at his centenary celebration.

The Commemorative Stamp of tabla virtuoso Pandit Chatur Lal, on his centenary celebration.A small piece of paper… holdin...
17/04/2026

The Commemorative Stamp of tabla virtuoso Pandit Chatur Lal, on his centenary celebration.

A small piece of paper… holding a universe of rhythm.

Unveiled at this historic milestone, this tribute by the India Post, Government of India is more than an honor—it is a timeless echo of a maestro whose music transcended boundaries.

Released in the graceful presence of Maharani Sahiba Nivritti Kumari Mewar of Udaipur & her daughter Baijilal Sahiba Praneshwari Kumari Mewar of Udaipur, Bhajan Samrat Anup Jalota, celebrated Indian pop and Bollywood singer Daler Mehndi along with Taran Mehndi, and maestro percussionist Sivamani, the moment shimmered with reverence and pride.

Alongside them stood the beloved family—Pandit Charanjit Chatur Lal & Meeta ChaturLal with their children Shruti, Pranshu, Sumant, and grandson Ardaas—carrying forward a legacy that continues to inspire generations.

This stamp is not just a remembrance.
It is rhythm captured in time.
A tribute that will travel across distances, just as his music once did.

And in every corner it reaches, it will whisper his name… Pandit Chatur Lal—forever alive in every beat.

16/04/2026

A legacy remembered with pride from the land of his janambhoomi, Udaipur.

We are honoured to share reflections from Shriji Huzur Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar of Udaipur as he remembers Pandit Chatur Lal on his 100th birth anniversary.

He reflects on Pandit ji as a true vibhuti of Mewar—whose international breakthrough marked a historic moment, deeply connected with the legacy of the Mewar family and his janambhoomi.

As we celebrate 100 years of Pandit ji, his journey remains a source of pride and an inspiration for generations across the world.

mewar

16/04/2026

Delhi… we are ready to welcome you this evening at the Pandit Chatur Lal Festival, presented by Delhi Tourism ✨

As we gather to celebrate the glorious 100 years of the legendary tabla virtuoso, Pandit Chatur Lal, our hearts are filled with deep gratitude and emotion. The overwhelming love and response to this historic evening have truly humbled us.

While we eagerly look forward to sharing this magical musical journey with those joining us tonight, we also extend our sincere apologies to the many music lovers who could not secure passes. With limited seating at a heritage venue, we regret not being able to accommodate everyone.

But this is not the end—only a continuation.
We promise to carry this celebration forward and make it up to you at our upcoming annual Amar Jyoti Concert this August—another soulful musical offering, as we continue honouring 100 years of an eternal rhythm.

To those who are with us this evening—
let’s come together to celebrate, remember, and immerse ourselves in a truly special night of music at Safdarjung Tomb, from 7:00 PM onwards.

With deep gratitude, we thank our partners for making this evening possible:
Co-Sponsor: JK Tyre
Hospitality Partner: Radisson Blu Plaza Delhi
Travel Partner: S.K. Travels & Logistics ®™️
Radio Partner: BIG LIVE Delhi
Outdoor Partner: Graphisads Limited

Let the rhythm unite us tonight. 🥁✨

15/04/2026

We are elated to share reflections from Kathak exponent Vidha Lal and tabla maestro Hiren Chate as they remember the timeless artistry of Pandit Chatur Lal on his 100th birth anniversary.

From the grace of Kathak to the depth of tabla, their words come together in tribute to a pioneer whose rhythm continues to inspire across forms and generations.

As we celebrate 100 years of Pandit ji, his resonance lives on—in every step, every beat, and every expression it touches.

14/04/2026

When breath becomes music, it finds its rhythm in legacy
We are happy to share reflections from flute maestro Pt. Ajay Prasanna. Rooted in tradition yet deeply expressive, his words pay tribute to a pioneer whose rhythm shaped the very essence of Indian Classical music.

14/04/2026

When memories carry the fragrance of a golden era.
We are honoured to share fond reflections from legendary vocalist Pt. Laxman Krishnarao Pandit as he remembers the timeless presence of Pandit Chatur Lal on his 100th birth anniversary.

Through his words, we glimpse not just the brilliance of Pandit ji’s artistry, but the warmth, humility, and spirit that made him so deeply cherished.

As we celebrate 100 years of Pandit ji, these memories remind us that his legacy lives on—not only in rhythm, but in the hearts of those who experienced his music.

14/04/2026

We are elated to share reflections from Indian cello maestro Saskia Rao-de Haas on the timeless legacy of Pandit Chatur Lal.

An artist who reimagines classical boundaries, her words pay tribute to a pioneer whose rhythm travelled the world and continues to inspire across cultures and genres.

As we celebrate 100 years of Pandit ji, his resonance lives.

14/04/2026

A legacy remembered from within the family.


We are honoured to share reflections from renowned sarod maestro Pandit Brij Narayan, son of Legendary Sarangi Virtuoso Pandit Ram Narayan and nephew of Tabla Virtuoso Pandit Chatur Lal.

His words carry not only the depth of musical understanding but also the warmth of a personal bond—remembering a pioneer whose artistry and spirit continue to inspire generations.

As we celebrate 100 years of Pandit ji, his legacy lives on—in every note, every rhythm, and every memory he leaves behind.

14/04/2026

A resounding homage to an eternal rhythm. 🥁✨


In a moment steeped in heritage and reverence, the Centenary Celebrations of tabla virtuoso Pandit Chatur Lal are marked by a distinguished tribute from the Government of India—the unveiling of a Commemorative Postal Stamp in his honor.

📍 Venue: Safdarjung Tomb, New Delhi
📅 Date: 16th April, 2026

A visionary who carried the soul of Indian rhythm across continents, Pandit Chatur Lal ji redefined the language of percussion, leaving an indelible imprint on the world stage. His rhythms do not merely endure—they resonate through time, inspiring generations of artists and connoisseurs alike.

Just 3 days to go… ✨Are you ready to witness the magic of the Pandit Chatur Lal Festival—an unforgettable evening steepe...
13/04/2026

Just 3 days to go… ✨
Are you ready to witness the magic of the Pandit Chatur Lal Festival—an unforgettable evening steeped in history, honoring 100 glorious years of Pandit Chatur Lal? 🎶

11/04/2026

From the archives of the 1980s, Sarod Queen Smt. Sharan Rani recalls the artistry, warmth, and ever-smiling presence of Pandit Chatur Lal.
A voice from the past, keeping a legacy alive.
Honouring 100 years of a legend.

Address

P-96, Second Floor, Pandit Chatur Lal Road, South Extension, Part-II
Delhi
110049

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Pandit Chatur Lal Memorial Society posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Organization

Send a message to Pandit Chatur Lal Memorial Society:

Share