Kavya Sriram: Vijayawada’s Rising Badminton Star
Kavya Sriram, a promising badminton player from Vijayawada, has earned multiple state and national medals since age nine. Guided by her father and coach K Bhaskar, she balances training with academics while idolizing PV Sindhu. With the Under‑15 Nationals approaching, Kavya is set to compete at a h…
By Felo News Desk · Published
In the bustling city of Vijayawada, a young athlete named Kavya Sriram is making headlines for her rapid ascent in Indian badminton. The 13‑year‑old, whose journey began by shadowing her father at local courts, has already secured a string of medals that signal a bright future.
Early Beginnings and Family Support
Kavya’s love for the sport started in her childhood. She would follow her father, Venkat Sriram, to the badminton court in Tenali and later in Vijayawada, simply to watch him play. The enthusiasm of the little girl soon turned into a desire to join the game, and her father became her first coach. This early partnership laid the foundation for a disciplined training routine that balanced schoolwork with rigorous practice sessions.
Venkat, who began playing in 1990, moved to Vijayawada to compete at the state level before health issues forced him to step away. He recalls, “When she was very young, she showed immense love for the game, and that’s when I decided to put her into full‑time coaching.” The father’s decision proved pivotal, allowing Kavya to develop skills that would soon earn her recognition beyond local courts.
Rapid Rise Through the Ranks
At just nine, Kavya captured a bronze medal in state‑level doubles in Ongole. By thirteen, she had won both singles and doubles gold at the same event and added a silver medal at the All India School Games in Delhi. The previous year, she claimed national Under‑13 doubles gold in Kolkata alongside partner Kyra Raina.
These achievements underscore a consistent upward trajectory. “My favourite part of badminton has to be winning,” Kavya says, reflecting the confidence of an athlete who has stood on podiums. Her success is not merely personal; it also serves as a source of pride for her family, who view her victories as a continuation of Venkat’s own sporting aspirations.
Guidance from Coach K Bhaskar
While family support is integral, Kavya credits her coach, K Bhaskar, for pushing her to higher standards. Bhaskar’s early belief in her potential helped shape her competitive mindset. Venkat remembers the moment he realized Kavya was destined for more: “The first time she won, I knew she was only going to go forward in this career.”
Bhaskar’s coaching style emphasizes technical precision, strategic play, and mental resilience—qualities that Kavya has demonstrated in her recent victories. This partnership has been instrumental in preparing her for the challenges of national and international competitions.
Balancing Academics and Elite Training
Managing school commitments alongside intensive training is no small feat. Kavya admits, “I have to manage, and it is a little tough, but my parents make sure I find the balance.” The family’s dedication ensures that she receives both academic support and the necessary rest to maintain peak performance.
Her academic schedule is tightly coordinated with training sessions, allowing her to attend classes during the day and practice in the evenings. This disciplined routine reflects a broader trend among India’s young athletes, who often juggle education with sport.
Looking Ahead: Under‑15 Nationals and Beyond
The upcoming Under‑15 Nationals in Jaipur present a new challenge for Kavya. Competing against older and more experienced players, she aims to test her skills on a larger stage. Her track record suggests that this event could be the beginning of a sustained winning streak.
With PV Sindhu as her idol, Kavya aspires to emulate the Indian badminton icon’s success. “PV Sindhu is my favourite. She’s my idol. I love her height. I’m the tallest in my class too, so I not only look forward to making my game as strong as hers,” she says, hinting at her ambition to match Sindhu’s prowess.
As she steps into this new phase, the badminton community watches with anticipation. Kavya’s journey from a curious child in Vijayawada to a national contender exemplifies the potential of India’s emerging sports talent.
Why Kavya’s Story Matters
Kavya’s rise highlights the importance of early exposure, family support, and quality coaching in nurturing sporting talent. Her story serves as an inspiration for young athletes across India, demonstrating that dedication and structured guidance can translate into national recognition.
Key facts
- Kavya Sriram’s rapid medal haul from age nine to thirteen
- Family and coach K Bhaskar’s pivotal roles
- Balancing education with elite training
- Aspiration to emulate PV Sindhu
- Upcoming Under‑15 Nationals as next milestone
Why it matters
Kavya’s progression underscores how early family involvement and expert coaching can propel young athletes to national prominence, offering a blueprint for talent development in India.
Frequently asked questions
What age did Kavya start playing badminton?
She began following her father to the courts as a child and started formal training around the age of five.
How many national medals has she won?
Kavya has secured at least one national Under‑13 doubles gold and multiple state-level medals.
Who is her main coach?
Coach K Bhaskar is her current primary coach, with her father serving as a foundational mentor.
What are her future goals?
She aims to compete in higher age categories and ultimately represent India at international tournaments.
Sources
- [1] newindianexpress.com — originally reported as “Young shuttler Kavya Sriram from AP sets sights on big wins”
