Kaavya

My name is Kavya Salgado, and I come from a family with a rich tradition in dance. I have been passionate about dancing since I was very young, inspired by the vibrant artistry that surrounded me at home. Although I faced some challenges that prevented me from completing my Pahim path earlier, I am now incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to achieve this milestone with the guidance of my talented teacher, Dilini Seniviratne. I am deeply grateful for the support and dedication she has shown, and I am excited to finally complete my Pahim path this year with KD Co.

Geemini

I’m Geemini, a student at UCL. After seeing a post about Narthana advertised on our university group chat, I decided to join and perform in Narthana 2022 and then 2023 which was incredibly fun! I was then inspired to begin Dilinis kandyan dance course and complete the subsequent exam so I’m really excited to be involved in Pahim path this year!

UPDATE: Since graduating, Geemini continues to take part in KD Co Narthana productions and recently celebrated her 5th Narthana milestone as a performer.

Keshia

I’m Keshia, a sixth form student at Pinner High. Dance has always been one of my passions. From Contemporary dance in Paris to Kandyan dance in London. This dance form has not only deepened my appreciation and connection to my cultural roots, but the strong sense of community and support from other dancers has also facilitated my self growth. Pahim Path is the rite of passage for young Kandyan dancers – a graduation ceremony. Completing it this year will help me towards my next step as a dancer. It will also be my first time performing on stage!

Pavindri 

I began dancing at the age of five and performed regularly until I was 17 while growing up in Melbourne. After moving to London, I was able to reconnect with a part of my life that I had left behind and rekindle my love for dance through KD Co. Completing structured dance courses and an examination has helped me rebuild and develop my practice, and Pahim Path now represents the next stage of that progression. Having opportunities like this in the UK has enabled me not simply to return to Kandyan dance, but to continue growing within it. I hope to keep building on this foundation through continued training and performance, ensuring that dance remains an active and meaningful part of my life in the UK.

UPDATE: Since graduating, Pavindri has progressed to become a Junior Associate Performer at KD Co, representing the company at various events and continuing to develop her experience as a Kandyan dance artist.

Ranoshi

I have been dancing since the age of 3, and it has always been a major part of my life. My love and dedication to dance have led me to numerous performances, competitions, and workshops. Recently, I started dancing in London after performing for many years in Sri Lanka. My time in Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that allowed me to connect deeply with the cultural roots of dance. I gained valuable insights and skills during this period. It has always been a goal of mine to complete Pahim Path, and I am excited to be a part of it alongside the Kandyan Dancers Company this time!

UPDATE: Since graduating, Ranoshi has progressed to become a Junior Core Performer at KD Co, representing the company at various events including The Commonwealth, Sri Lanka Tourism and major corporate venues and continuing to develop her experience as a Kandyan dance artist.