ABOUT
Join us on our journey as KalaArangam; since 2014, we have been dedicated to providing a platform for artistic expression, thereby promoting and nurturing talent in our community. We have several initiatives within the KalaArangam banner, and strongly believe in supporting the artistic community, actively engaging with other organizations not only within the region but across the country.
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What Makes Us Different
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Not a nonprofit: KalaArangam is structured to support flexibility, entrepreneurship, and creative autonomy.
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Not a presenting organization: We aren’t just showcasing work — we help shape and grow it from the ground up.
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Not just our own ideas: We collaborate with others to realize their artistic visions under a shared, professional banner.
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Lakshmi Iyer
​Our founder, executive, and artistic director Lakshmi Iyer established Abhinay Fine Arts & Abhinay School of Dance and Music in Seattle, creating distinguished productions like Kshetram, which was a collaboration between Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniyattam dancers. She also showcased a variety of established and upcoming talent through opportunities such as performances, competitions, and workshops.
Upon moving to St.Louis, she established KalaArangam, an umbrella organization, that includes several branches. As part of Margam Dance Company, she teaches and choreographs in conjunction with her daughter Megha.
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Lakshmi received her training in Bangalore under the guidance of Gurus Smt. Narmada, Smt. Maya Rao, Smt. Usha Datta and Smt. Padmini Ravi. She brings a blend of the Pandanallur and Vazhavoor Banis along with the aesthetics from her kathak training in the Jaipur Gharana.
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Megha, the co-executive director of KalaArangam, has over 20 years of Bharatanatyam experience under the tutelage of Guru Lakshmi Iyer. As a dedicated performer, teacher, and choreographer, Megha is committed to preserving and sharing the beauty of Indian classical arts.
