Meet Anushka Jadhav: a singer, songwriter and composer, all at 11th grade

Music is something that has inspired Anushka for as long as she can remember. Her first tryst with music happened when her mother started learning hindustani classical vocals. By the time she was 11, however, the likes of Miley Cyrus and Idina Menzel, and Disney songs, and ‘Let it Go’ from Frozen in particular had started her off on her journey of learning western classical music. Anushka Jadhav, an 11th grade student at Ekya Schools has progressed significantly since, going on to release a popular song in collaboration with the renowned musician Vinay Kaushal. Read on as she shares her inspiration story and what made it tick for her.

1. How did you get in touch with the popular musician Vinay Kaushal to release your song?

Furtados hosts an All-India music competition called BandIt every year. In 2021, I took part in BandIt in the solo singing category and won first place. I met Vinay Kaushal through this event.

2. What is it you like to do apart from singing in your free time?

I love fitness, so I try to find time to go cycling or running or swimming. I like watching movies. Christopher Nolan and Nitesh Tiwari are two of my favourite directors.

3. What are your future goals and aims?

I play the piano and guitar to accompany myself while singing, so I want to become better at playing those instruments. I also want to continue to explore various aspects of music. Songwriting and composition have always fascinated me, so that is something I’m working on and hopefully in the future, I will be able to put out my original music.

4. Tell us about your 2021 BandIt win.

Furtados BandIt is an open competition, and I auditioned for it with Adele’s Someone Like You, while accompanying myself on the piano. When I got into the top 10 finalists round, I knew I had to have a song where I can showcase my vocal skills.



I first heard the song Hallelujah when I was living in Sydney. This immensely popular song by Leonard Cohen has been interpreted by numerous artists over the years. I really liked Tori Kelly’s version of Hallelujah, and that is the version I performed, with a few tweaks, for the finals.



I practised the song over many days. I also recorded myself and played it back a few times to spot areas where I needed to improve. I took feedback from my parents and that helped me get an outsider’s view. 


5. Are you planning to release any other song anytime soon?

Yes, I very recently released a cover of Radioactive by Imagine Dragons! It’s available on streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music & Youtube. I go by Anushka J on all these platforms. 

In the future, I want to continue to record more covers of songs that I enjoy and that inspire me, and also work on creating my own compositions. 


6. Who is your favourite singer?

That is a tough one since my music taste and preferences are constantly evolving. Currently, my favourite singer is Adele. I love the power and depth in her voice and the way she is able to project and convey her emotions through her music.

7. How do you balance your music with studies and other things?

My parents and brother have always been there for me and I really appreciate their support and love. My friends have been big motivators and support to me. Also, I am grateful to my teachers for their constant encouragement and opportunities to perform.

Anushka Jadhav does have a voice that is a gift from God, but she also proves in equal measure that success and victory lies at the intersection of hard work and passion - both of which she has in abundance! Team Edugraph wishes Anushka the best and be sure to keep your eyes out for this bussing musician - Anushka J.