Sunitha Musical Legacy: Renowned playback singer Sunitha Upadrashta has enchanted Telugu audiences for decades, lending her versatile voice to hundreds of film songs and garnering multiple state awards. A Padutha Theeyaga alumnus herself, Sunitha’s breakthrough came early under the mentorship of S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, and she’s since become a respected vocal coach and reality-show judge.
From Mentor to Judge
When ETV Telugu relaunched Padutha Theeyaga’s Silver Jubilee Series in 2025, Sunitha returned as a judge, guiding contestants with the same keen ear that propelled her career. Drawing on her rigorous Carnatic training and film-industry experience, she championed technical excellence, emotive delivery, and authenticity in every performance.
Who is Pravasthi Aradhya?
Pravasthi Aradhya is a 19-year-old Indian singer, born on December 9, 2006, and known for her participation in various Telugu and Tamil music reality shows. She first gained prominence through her powerful voice and early start in the music industry, showcasing her talent on multiple platforms. Nicknamed “Rhino,” Pravasthi began her musical journey at a young age. In 2011, at just four years old, she won Zee Telugu’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Little Champs, marking her early success. Subsequently, she participated in Airtel Super Singer Junior 4 (Tamil) in 2014, where she reached the finals. Later, in 2024, she won Star Maa’s Super Singer, further solidifying her reputation as a talented young vocalist.
In addition to her musical career, Pravasthi attended Geethanjali Olympiad School and has expressed aspirations of becoming an IPS officer to serve the underprivileged. Her musical influences include legendary singers S. Janaki and S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, whose styles have shaped her vocal approach.
Navigating the Pravasthi Controversy
The show’s high standards sparked a public feud when 19-year-old contestant Pravasthi Aradhya accused Sunitha (alongside fellow judges MM Keeravani and Chandrabose) of bias and undue criticism. Sunitha quickly addressed the claims in a heartfelt video, reminding viewers that:
1. Reputation Rises on Merit: “Character isn’t built on rumors,” she asserted, emphasizing that her feedback has always aimed to help contestants grow.
2. Longstanding Support: She recalled spotting Pravasthi’s talent years earlier on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Little Champs and has consistently encouraged her musical journey.
3. Clear Roles: Sunitha clarified that song assignments come from the producers, not the judges, and that any wardrobe decisions follow thematic requirements, not personal bias.
Championing Fair Play
Throughout her response, Sunitha struck a tone of measured compassion, urging young singers to accept setbacks gracefully while vowing to maintain transparency and fairness on future episodes. She also invited an open dialogue with production about contestant welfare, signaling her commitment to respectful mentorship.
Looking Ahead
As the Padutha Theeyaga saga unfolds, Sunitha remains focused on nurturing emerging talent. Her balanced approach, combining technical rigor with genuine empathy, continues to shape Telugu music’s next generation, even amid controversy.
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