Our Founder and Guru

Meet Nattuvangakalaimani Smt. Santhanalakshmi Sriram, our esteemed founder and guru, a remarkable individual who embodies the harmonious blend of artistic excellence and rigorous academic pursuit. In 2023, she received the title Nattuvangakalaimani, a prestigious title given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of Bharatanatyam.

Smt. Santhanalakshmi possesses a distinguished academic background, holding a Baccalaureate in Performing Arts and a Master's in Bharatanatyam. Her academic journey extends beyond the arts, encompassing an Engineering Degree in Industrial Biotechnology. Currently pursuing a PhD in Bharatanatyam from Vedic Wellness University, Florida, she also serves as a faculty member for their Diploma and Masters Degree programs, further solidifying her position as a leading authority in the field of classical dance.

Her artistic journey has been nurtured under the tutelage of renowned gurus including Thanjavur Nattuva aasaan Kalaimamani Sri. B. Herambanathan, Padma Vibhushan Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam, Chinnamanur Dr. A.Chitra, and Smt. Priya Murle. With over 19 years of dedicated practice, she is a seasoned Bharatanatyam dancer with a deep understanding of both performance and choreography.

Smt. Santhanalakshmi has captivated audiences across India and the USA with her mesmerizing performances. Her passion for sharing this art form extends beyond the stage, as she has been imparting the nuances of Bharatanatyam to aspiring dancers for over 15 years in both India and the US.