6-year-old Kethana Reddy sets sights on record books in Kuchipudi
Hyderabad: Maddirala Kethana Reddy, a 6-year-old dancer, is capturing hearts with her extraordinary Kuchipudi performances. Currently in the 2nd grade, Kethana has already made a significant impact in the world of Indian classical dance.
At just six years and three months old, Kethana recently delivered an amazing performance that left audiences in awe. During her performance, she expertly balanced a pot on her head while holding lighted diyas in her hands and performing a hula hoop routine around her hips. Her routine, lasting the entire duration of a five-minute song, also included climbing a pot, turning around with remarkable balance, and incorporating impressive leg lifts, twists and bends. This feat is exceptional for someone of her age.
Kethana started learning Kuchipudi at the age of three, initially inspired by her cousin. Her brother, Lahar Nandan Reddy, is also a classical dancer. Despite a COVID-19 break, her talent remained undiminished.
Speaking with the Hyderabad Mail, Kethana’s mother, Pavani, expressed immense pride in her daughter’s achievements. “Maddirala Kethana Reddy is a prodigious young talent with a deep interest in everything she does. She is multi-talented, and we are incredibly proud of her accomplishments. She has already given more than 20 stage performances till now, showcasing her Kuchipudi skills,” Pavani said.
Kethana’s talent was also highlighted at the Sankranthi Sambaralu event organised by the Chief Minister’s Office in Vijayawada on January 14, 2024. Her performance garnered widespread admiration, earning her accolades from former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy. The former Chief Minister praised her vibrant and skilled performance, noting her impressive achievement level given her young age.
Beyond her dance prowess, Kethana is also a dedicated student, balancing her academic responsibilities with her dance training. Pavani said the importance of integrating cultural education with classical dance. “Our joint family environment inspires Kethana, and we wanted her to learn about our culture, history, and gods through classical dance. This approach helps her understand the meaning of the slokas and songs along with the dance,” Pavani explained.
Kethana’s teacher, Sahithi, provides weekly lessons at their home and has played a crucial role in composing Kethana’s performances. Pavani also highlighted the family’s commitment to cultural education, noting that Kethana’s father, Madusudhan Reddy, who works at the Indian Railway Accounts Service (IRAS), tells the Ramayana as bedtime stories to instill a sense of history in their children.
Pavani said, “We have already applied to the Indian Book of Records and are in the process of applying to the Limca Book of Records and the Guinness World Records, to recognise Kethana’s extraordinary achievements officially.”
