As part of the ‘French Cultural Season 2024,’ the Embassy of France in Sri Lanka and the Maldives recently organised ‘Titan Games,’ a national breakdance and all-style competition to promote breaking, which debuted as a new sporting discipline at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. 

An eight-year-old from Masimbula, Godakawela, earned second place in the Beginner Breaking category, showcasing impressive talent. 

Additionally, she was among the top six contestants in the recent Derana Little Stars Season 12.

This talented girl, Imashi Sewwandi, known by her stage name ‘B-girl Ima,’ is excelling in various dance styles. 

In an interview with The Sunday Morning Little Stars, she shared her dream of becoming a dance teacher so she could pass on the fun dance moves she’s learning to others.

Please introduce yourself to our audience.

My name is M.A. Imashi Sewwandi, and I’m eight years old. I’m a student of Stepper-z Dance Studio in Godakawela and was one of the top six finalists in the recent Derana Little Stars programme. 

I live in Masimbula. I attend Rahula Primary School, and I’m currently in Grade 3. I live with my mother, father, two elder sisters, and our dog, Lucy, who I love very much. 

Some of my favourite things to do are dancing, drawing, playing, and spending time with my best friend, Chathurya. But out of everything, I love dancing the most.

How long have you been dancing?

I’ve been dancing since my nursery days, but I joined Andy Sir’s studio only two years ago. I practise different styles of dance, including hip hop, breaking, Bollywood, and Tamil traditional.

What’s your favourite dance style?

My favourite dance style is break dancing. I love it because of moves like head spins and handstands. 

I can also do cartwheels and toprock. I’m often praised for my backspin move, which is a special part of my routine.

Have you learnt all of these moves in just two years?

Yes, I’ve learnt them all within the last two years. I practised a lot to get them right.

What inspired you to start dancing?

My Amma told me I have a talent for dancing and encouraged me to try it. I’ve been dancing ever since I was very little.

Do your sisters dance too?

Yes, they do. My elder sister, Pavithra, is 17, and my younger sister, Ridmi, is 15.

Tell us about your achievements.

I made it to the top six in Derana Little Stars Season 12, where I performed both hip hop and break dance. It was an amazing experience to perform on such big stages, which I love.

I also participated in the ‘Titan Games’ in the Beginner Breaking category, where I won second place. This event was organised by the Embassy of France in Sri Lanka and the Maldives as part of a national breakdance competition. 

My coach, Andy Sir, took me to the event. I practised hard, and we travelled to Colombo with my coach and friends. I felt very happy and encouraged by the experience.

What is your future ambition?

My future ambition is to become a dancing teacher. I want to teach others the nice steps I learn, so they can enjoy dancing just like I do.

Do you do any sports in school?

Yes, I do skipping as a sport in school.

What do others say about your achievements?

People say I’m really good. They take my photo, hug me, call me, and even give me gifts. My coach, Andy Sir, told me he is very proud of me.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank for their support?

Mainly, I want to thank my mother and my family for always supporting me. I also want to thank my coach, Andy Sandaru, who works tirelessly to guide me. 

My friends, Stepper-z Dance Studio, and everyone there have been great too. A big thank you goes to Break Brothers Crew, Beat Bullet Dance Studio, and Invincible Dance Studio for supporting me during tournaments.

A comment from Imashi’s main coach 

Imashi is an exceptionally talented girl who quickly masters even the toughest breakdance steps. 

Despite coming from the rural village of Masimbula in Godakawela located between Ratnapura and Embilipitiya, she demonstrates remarkable commitment and a promising future. 

At her young age, she is an all-rounder dancer, with her greatest talent shining in breaking. Imashi is always eager to improve her skills, and I am happy and proud to be her coach.

Stepper-Z Dance Studio Owner Andy Sandaru

PHOTO LALITH PERERA