Meet Pahandi Bhavanya Prabashi Jayasinghe, an energetic 10-year-old. In this interview, we’ll learn about her love for dancing, cooking, and martial arts, as well as her close-knit family and her beloved dog, Angel. Pahandi’s life is an exciting journey and we’re here to explore it with her.
Tell us about yourself.
My name is Pahandi Bhavanya Prabashi Jayasinghe, and I just turned 10 years old. I am from Kurunegala and I attend Royal International School Kurunegala. I am currently in grade four. My best friend’s name is Miheli.
What are some of your hobbies?
I have a few hobbies I really enjoy. First, I absolutely love dancing and I’m also quite passionate about cooking. Additionally, I practise karate at school and I find great joy in reading storybooks.
Tell us about your dancing. Where do you learn to dance and what kind of dancing do you like?
I take dance lessons at Lalith Parakum Dance Studio, which is super cool. When it comes to the types of dance I like, I’m really into hip-hop and traditional dancing. Oh, and I’ve even had the chance to perform at our school concert. I’ve been learning to dance for two years now and it’s been an amazing journey.
You mentioned karate. How long have you been playing karate and what belt do you currently hold?
I’ve been practising karate for about a year, and I’m proud to say that I currently hold the orange belt.
What kinds of things do you like to cook, and do you get any help?
Cooking is awesome. I enjoy making things like jelly, delicious desserts, and various types of drinks. My amma is a great help in the kitchen. I actually got inspired to cook by watching her work her culinary magic.
Could you tell us about your family and who you live with?
I live with my wonderful family, which includes my parents, my sister, my brother, and my maternal grandmother. It’s a full house, but we have a lot of fun together.
Do you have any pets?
Yes, I have an adorable dog named Angel. She’s a five-year-old German Shepherd with beautiful brown and black fur. Angel and I have a blast playing together, and she has this thing for collecting teddy bears as her toys. She’s really clever at finding and playing with empty drink bottles.
How do you take care of your pet?
Taking care of Angel is something I take very seriously. First, I make sure she has plenty of fresh water and nutritious food every day. Regular walks and playtime are essential to keep her active and happy. I also give her lots of love and attention because pets thrive on affection. Keeping her clean and healthy with regular grooming and vet check-ups is a top priority too. And, of course, providing her with a safe and comfortable place to sleep and play is important. Taking care of Angel brings me joy, and I cherish our bond.
What do you want to be when you grow up?
When I grow up, I want to be a professional dancer because dancing is my absolute passion. Currently, I’m a proud member of the school dance club, and I receive training from three amazing teachers: Sachini Wasala, Subhashi Malika, and Lalith Parakum. Besides dancing, I also have a keen interest in doing photoshoots and acting, and I might even give acting a try someday.
What qualities do you think you need to become a good professional dancer?
To be a good dancer, you need to be flexible both in your body and open to different dance styles, patient because learning dance takes time, confident for performing on stage, and a team player for group performances. Having a strong work ethic and a deep love for dance also help you succeed in this profession.
Anything else you’re looking forward to or interested in?
Yes, I’m quite excited about taking part in athletics. It sounds like a lot of fun, and I’m really looking forward to it.
How important do you think sports are in your life?
Sports hold a special place in my life. They play a significant role in keeping me active, healthy, and happy. Whether it’s dancing, karate, or other activities, sports provide me with a sense of purpose and passion. They teach me discipline, teamwork, and the value of hard work. So, I’d say sports are quite important to me, and they make my life more fulfilling and enjoyable.
Is there anyone you want to thank for supporting you?
Well, my parents and my grandmother. Especially my teachers. I also want to thank all my well-wishers and those who have supported me even in a small way.