Flute artiste Sikkil Mala Chandrasekhar continues in the tradition of her famous gurus: the Sikkil Sisters--Kunjumani & Neela. In playing style, Mala combines the strongest aspects of both Kunjumani's clear classic lines with Neela's flair and expressiveness.

Mala imbibed through her mothers the flute artistry of their peternal uncle, Azhiyur Narayanaswamy Iyer and the rigorous rhythmic training given by their mrudungam playing father, Azhiyur Natesa Iyer. Other major influences on Mala's playing are the expertise and repertoire of noted vocalist and teacher Radha Viswanathan and of Radha's mother and guru M.S.Subbulakshmi whose family Mala joined by marriage.