In the remote district of Bageshwar, Uttarakhand, 2016 batch IAS officer Anuradha Pal isn’t just known for her administrative skills but also for her vibrant personality and inspiring hobbies. The District Magistrate of Bageshwar is a multifaceted individual who balances her demanding role with her passions for painting and badminton—two seemingly distinct worlds that bring her joy and refresh her mind after a long day of public service.
In an exclusive conversation with Indian Masterminds, the officer shared details about her passion.
THE ARTIST IN ANURADHA
Anuradha’s artistic journey began in childhood, with watercolour painting as her medium of choice. Unlike many artists who receive formal training, she developed her skills on her own, learning through practice and experimentation. Now, as she considers organizing an exhibition of her work, Anuradha’s love for painting has gained new dimensions.
“Painting has always been a way for me to express my thoughts and find peace,” she says. “I never formally learned how to paint; it was simply something that felt natural to me. Over the years, I’ve come to love creating watercolour portraits—they feel alive and capture expressions beautifully.”
Her style leans toward portraiture, a theme she finds endlessly fascinating for the stories human faces can tell. Watercolour, with its blend of spontaneity and delicacy, is her ideal medium for capturing these intricate expressions. Anuradha hopes to share her art with a wider audience soon, intending to set up an exhibition that will display her labour of love and dedication.
A LIFELONG ATHLETE
Anuradha’s athletic journey began long before her administrative career. As a child, she was a passionate kabaddi and handball player, representing her school at the national level. In college, she switched to basketball, even participating in inter-university tournaments. Her commitment to sports has been a constant companion throughout her life, shaping her disciplined approach to challenges.It was during her training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA) that Anuradha made a switch to badminton.
“Basketball was my game, but it requires a team, and there weren’t many players around to form one. So, I picked up badminton, and it turned out to be a blessing in disguise,” she told Indian Masterminds.
Now 35, she has entered the veteran category and competes actively, winning state titles in singles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles in the State Masters Badminton Tournament for 2023-24.Badminton has become a daily ritual for her, a way to recharge and stay fit amid the demanding responsibilities of her job.
“No matter how tired I am after work, the energy badminton gives me is worth every minute I spend on the court,” she says. “It’s refreshing and invigorates me, which even helps me focus better on my training for tournaments.”
AIMING FOR NATIONAL TITLES
Winning the state-level titles has boosted her confidence, and Anuradha now has her sights set on competing in national tournaments. Although her plans for nationals were postponed last year due to the local elections, she is determined to give it her best shot this time.
“Playing in the national-level tournaments is definitely on my agenda. It’s not only about winning; it’s the joy of playing and pushing myself that keeps me going. I know balancing this with my duties as a DM is challenging, but it’s a challenge I look forward to,” she shared.
Balancing her professional responsibilities with her passion for sports might seem daunting to many, but Anuradha believes that her love for the game actually complements her role. Badminton, she says, is more than just a sport for her—it’s a therapeutic activity that helps her unwind and keep stress at bay.
A LIFE OF BALANCE AND FULFILLMENT
For Anuradha Pal, success lies in balancing her personal passions with her public responsibilities. Whether she’s picking up a paintbrush or a badminton racket, Anuradha brings the same dedication to her hobbies that she brings to her work as DM of Bageshwar. Her artistic and athletic pursuits remind her that there’s more to life than administrative responsibilities and paperwork.
“Being able to express myself outside of my professional life is essential for my well-being. When I’m painting or playing, I’m in my own world, recharging for the next day. It keeps me grounded and reminds me why I love what I do, both in the office and outside,” she told Indian Masterminds.
In a world where the role of an IAS officer is often all-consuming, Anuradha Pal stands out for her ability to nurture her passions. Her story is a reminder that we are all more than our job titles, and finding joy in what we love can make us more effective, fulfilled individuals—no matter the path we choose.
