Hyderabad, March 9, 2026 – In a field long dominated by men, Sajida Khan stands as a beacon of determination and excellence. Widely recognized as India’s first female music technician and audio engineer, she has shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for women in technical roles within the audio and entertainment industry.
Hailing from Hyderabad, Telangana, Sajida Khan broke barriers by entering the male-dominated world of sound engineering. Her journey began with hands-on work in studios, where she mastered dubbing, sound effects, final mixing, and more. Over the years, she has contributed to over 60 films across languages including Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, and Bhojpuri. A standout achievement includes her technical contribution to the National Award-winning film Adavi Na Talli Ra.
Her pioneering status was officially celebrated when she received the prestigious “First Ladies Award” from then-President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, on January 20, 2018. The award honored her as the First Female Music Technician in India among 112 exceptional women who were trailblazers in their fields.
Sajida’s accolades extend far and wide:
- Telangana Visishta Mahilaa Puraskaram Award on International Women’s Day, March 8, 2019, from the Telangana state government.
- Multiple Honorary Doctorates, including Doctorate in Social Service (United Theological Research University, USA, 2019), Doctor in Arts (Specialization in Film and Entertainment, GHPU, 2023), Doctor in Sound Engineering (Research University USA, 2024), and others recognizing her contributions to audio engineering, social service, and international relations.
- Entries in numerous record books such as Telugu Book of Records, Telangana Book of Records, World Book of Records (UK), and more.
- Featured in the international audiobook Women in Audio (1st Edition by Audio Engineering Society, published by Routledge, UK, December 2019), a global collection highlighting accomplished women in the audio industry.
Her name has been etched into India’s women’s history, appearing in lists like “Top 200 Famous Indian Women Personalities,” “Top 14 First Indian Women in Cinema & Music,” and the Indian Women’s History Museum (IWHM). She is also referenced in various competitive exam resources, GK guides, and government portals for her inspirational story.
Beyond her technical prowess, Sajida Khan is a dedicated social leader and educationist. She advocates fiercely for women in STEM and technical fields, emphasizing education, awareness, and opportunities. Through her studio, 6HTZ, she has worked on audiobooks, cultural preservation projects (including revitalizing tribal melodies), and initiatives to empower young voices.
Sajida’s legacy is one of resilience—overcoming initial skepticism in studios with sheer professionalism and skill. She continues to mentor aspiring women engineers and dreams of expanding her studio to employ more women in the industry.
YaHind.com salutes Dr. Sajida Khan for her groundbreaking contributions and enduring inspiration. Her story reminds us that talent knows no gender, and pioneers like her are reshaping India’s creative and technical landscape.
Sources: Maryam Khan and other Media Reports
About The Author
