One-pot and metal free synthesis of α-ketoamides has been described through in situ generation of aryl ketones from easily available ethylarenes followed by amidation with various amines. This multiple oxidation protocol involves catalytic I2-pyridine-TBHP (t-butyl hydroperoxide) mediated oxidative benzylic carbonylation and sequential NaI-TBHP mediated oxidative amidation without using any solvent.