Falguni Pathak

Falguni Pathak is a Hindi singer and performing artist from India. Based in Mumbai, but with a strong affinity towards the traditional music of the Indian state of Gujarat, she has, since her professional debut in 1998, developed into a leading Indian pop personality widely dubbed the "Queen of Dandiya".

She has claimed in interviews that she became a singer "by default", having had no particular aspirations in that direction. Indeed, when she performed in public for the first time at the age of nine, her father made no secret of his disapproval, even giving her a beating. Nevertheless, having won him over, she was performing regularly from the age of ten.

Her debut album was released in 1998, and was the first of at least a dozen bearing her name. She has also recorded numerous songs that have featured in Bollywood movies. She has given many shows, often lasting right through the night until daybreak, both in India and elsewhere around the world. A powerful vocalist and energetic performer, backed by a band (called Ta Thaiyaa) that can number up to eighteen members, she regularly blends traditional styles with a more modern approach. Her stage appearance has also drawn attention, often dressed in a boyish manner that has reportedly made her a favourite with India's growing gay community