Smt. Padmavathy Ananthagopalan, one of the foremost vainikas of our times, hails from a family of musicians. Her ancestors are the direct disciples of Saint Thyagaraja and it is no wonder that music runs in her blood. The only Veena player in a family of violinists, Padmavathy is the sister of the illustrious Violin maestro, Sri Lalgudi G. Jayaraman.

Her father, Sri.V.R.Gopala Iyer, meticulously trained her from a very young age. Her brother has also been a constant source of inspiration and guidance. Living in an environment of culture and tradition, Padmavathy started performing at the very young age of 12. Ever since, Veena has been her life, her passion, her everything.

She has evolved a style of her own based on the gayaki style and literally sings on her instrument. She has performed in all the major organizations in India.

Padmavathy considered Padmabhushan Late Dr. S. Balachander as her 'Manaseeka Guru' - her source of inspiration and was also privileged to perform along with him.