Guru-Shishya

Guru Lavanya Mahadevan

Lavanya Mahadevan is a dedicated and accomplished teacher of Bharatanatyam and Carnatic music, with over 17 years of extensive teaching experience. She received her Bharatanatyam training under Smt. Ratnam Janardhanan and pursued Carnatic vocal music under the esteemed guidance of the late Smt. Rajeswari Neelakanthan, an A-grade artist of All India Radio, Trichy.

Lavanya holds a Master’s degree in Bharatanatyam, is a recipient of the National Scholarship in Music, and has earned a diploma in Carnatic music. As a performer, she has presented her art on several prestigious stages across India, including the Kalidas Mohotsav, Konark Dance Festival, and the Navaratri festivals at Guruvayoor and Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, among many others.

In 2008, she founded the Kala Aradhana Dance and Music Academy in New Jersey with the vision of nurturing young talent and preserving the rich traditions of Indian classical arts. Under her guidance, students actively participate in temple events, competitions, and esteemed cultural platforms such as the Cleveland Thyagaraja Utsavam.

Shishya - Madhuri

Madhuri has been learning Bharatanatyam since the first grade under the guidance and direction of Guru Lavanya Mahadevan. Alongside dance, she has also been training in Carnatic music, nurturing a deep appreciation for Indian classical arts. Over the years, she has developed a strong passion for Bharatanatyam and has had the opportunity to perform at several esteemed cultural and spiritual venues, including the Cleveland Thyagaraja Aradhana, Guruvayoorappan Temple, and Sri Krishna Vrundavana.

Dance has played a significant role in shaping Madhuri’s personality, instilling in her discipline, confidence, perseverance, and a deep sense of cultural pride. The dedication and commitment she has cultivated through Bharatanatyam continue to influence every aspect of her life.

Currently a senior at JP Stevens High School, Madhuri balances her dedication to the arts with academics and athletics. She serves as the Captain of the JP Stevens Women’s Varsity Soccer team, demonstrating leadership, discipline, and teamwork both on and off the field.

Following graduation, Madhuri plans to pursue a degree in Engineering while continuing to stay connected to her love for Bharatanatyam, Carnatic music, and the performing arts.