Grandmother’s Kuchipudi Rangapravesam
She added that regular yoga and fitness kept her motivated
HYDERABAD: At 64, Sobha Reddy performed her Kuchipudi Rangapravesam in the city, sending out a message of inspiration to those who set aside their passions and hobbies.
Sobha Reddy said she took up Kuchipudi in 2021 after her husband’s retirement, joining a centre in Journalist Colony, Jubilee Hills. “Never let your dreams and passions die. One has to follow a balanced diet and workout each day,” she said.
Her inspiration dated back to childhood, when she watched Vyjayanthimala Bali perform at her father’s college celebrations. “That day, a lifelong dream was born,” she recalled. Her guru, Jyothi Reddy, said Sobha Reddy was the most disciplined student she had taught. “She never missed a single class. For me also, this is a first-of-its-kind experience. She made me proud as she performed on stage,” Jyothi said.
Mother of two, with both children settled abroad, Sobha’s Rangapravesam was witnessed by four families who travelled from overseas. She explained why she could not pursue dance earlier: “I completed graduation from Sri Padmavathi Women’s College and later a master’s in Home Science, Food Nutrition and Diet Therapy from Venkateshwara University in 1984. In 1985, I married Surender Reddy of SBI and moved to Hyderabad. Family responsibilities meant I had to set aside hobbies.”
She added that regular yoga and fitness kept her motivated. “Women should keep themselves fit with workouts and healthy food habits,” she said. Padmavathi, who attended the event, described Sobha’s performance as a “dream come true”, inspiring many to accomplish long-cherished wishes and passions.