Anoushka Shankar: People Called Me A Traitor

Anoushka Shankar is one of the most celebrated musicians of her generation. Born into musical royalty as the daughter of legendary sitar player Ravi Shankar, she has spent more than three decades carving out her artistic identity; pushing the boundaries of Indian classical music, being nominated for 13 Grammy awards, collaborating with artists including Sting, Gorillaz and Lenny Kravitz, and performing on some of the world's biggest stages. But it’s not always been an easy journey.

In this episode, Anoushka joins Anita to talk about identity, legacy, and what it means to choose your own path, even when it's uncomfortable. From growing up under intense public scrutiny to being branded a traitor by some within her own community, surviving childhood sexual abuse, and making the deeply personal decision to have a hysterectomy, she reflects on the moments that forced her to stop living for other people's expectations and start telling her own story.

This is a conversation about pushing boundaries, finding freedom in honesty, and letting go of shame.

Content warning: This episode contains discussions about rape, sexual assault and sexual violence. We know these experiences can be difficult to hear about, so please listen in the way that feels right for you. If you need support, or if this episode raises concerns for you or someone you know, you'll find details of organisations that can help below.

Rape Crisis England & Wales - 0808 500 2222 - rapecrisis.org.uk

The Survivors Trust - 0808 801 0818 - thesurvivorstrust.org

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Anita - @itsanitarani

Anoushka - @anoushkashankarofficial

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Presented by Anita Rani

Producer: Flossie Barratt