In 1992, Princess Diana visited India during a royal tour. One of the most memorable moments happened in Hyderabad at Lalapet Government High School. A four-year-old girl, Avanti Reddy, captured the Princess’s heart.
Avanti, dressed in tribal clothes, was performing a Lambadi dance with her friends to welcome the royals. While sitting on the ground, Princess Diana picked her up and placed her on the stage. “She asked me my name, my school, and my class,” Avanti told the Daily Mail. “I had a cold, so she wiped my nose with her own handkerchief.”
The Duchess of Wales, known for her warmth with children, spoke lovingly to Avanti: “I don’t have a daughter, so today you are my daughter.”
A Bond Beyond the Visit
The special connection between Princess Diana and Avanti didn’t end in India. They later corresponded through letters, and Diana even sent Avanti a signed photograph of them together. Avanti said, “I used to show the letter she sent me to everybody.”
Tragically, Avanti’s dream of meeting Diana again never came true. Princess Diana passed away in a car accident when Avanti was just 10 years old.
Where Avanti Is Today
Now 37 years old, Avanti is vibrant and creative. She worked as a pre-primary teacher at Infant Jesus School in Hyderabad, a school founded by her mother. She also completed a degree in dance in 2007. Although she chose to focus on her family, Avanti still dreams of performing and teaching dance.
Avanti shared with the Daily Mail: “It’s been too long since I danced. Maybe one day I could organize a dance for Prince George and Princess Charlotte when they grow up.”
A Mother’s Heartbreaking Loss
In 2017, Avanti suffered a devastating loss when her one-year-old daughter, Moksha Ragni, passed away due to breathing problems. She said tearfully, “Her name means Queen of Heaven.”
Avanti’s Hopes for the Future
Although Avanti is currently focused on exploring life and new experiences, she hopes to return to teaching and choreography one day. She said, “Right now I don’t have any plans, but I like roaming and seeing new things. Maybe in the future, I can inspire children and share my dance.”
The story of Avanti and Princess Diana remains a touching reminder of the late Princess’s warmth and compassion, and how a single encounter can leave a lifelong impression.
