One of the duo popularly known as the Bombay Sisters, the elder being C Saroja, C Lalitha, was born on 26th August 1938 at Trissur to Mukthambal and N Chidambaram Iyer. She, along with Saroja, was initiated into music by her elder sister, Sethu Madhavan. Later she and Saroja trained in Bombay under HAS Mani, who was known in local circles as Chellamani Bhagavatar.

Having joined the Central College for Karnatik Music (now the Isai Kalluri) in Madras, for higher studies in the art, they came under the direct tutelage of Sangita Kalanidhi Musiri Subramania Iyer who was then Principal of the College. Having qualified with the degree of Sangita Vidwan, they continued their pursuit of music under Sangita Kalanidhi TK Govinda Rao.

Beginning with their debut in 1963, the Bombay Sisters progressed steadily as concert artistes. They were ranked in the top grade by the All India Radio. They performed at numerous Sabhas and under the auspices of state-promoted institutions all over the country. The Sisters also gave several performances abroad.

The recipients of numerous awards and recognitions, the Bombay Sisters were known for their strict adherence to the tenets of classical music. They have also carved a unique niche for themselves through the many recordings they have done of Sanskrit and Tamil hymns and chants, wedding songs and music lessons for the young. In recognition of their services to the art, The Music Academy, Madras conferred on them the title of Sangita Kalanidhi in 2010.

The Music Academy mourns the passing of Smt C Lalitha on January 31, 2023.