Sai Meghna
Dance School
Kuchipudi Classical Dance
Dance School
Preserving tradition. Inspiring generations.
The Art Form
Born in the Andhra village that gave it its name, Kuchipudi is one of India's eight classical dance forms — a centuries-old tradition in which rhythm, gesture, and narrative become inseparable.
It is at once disciplined and ecstatic. A vocabulary of precise footwork and sculpted hand gestures gives way to the full theatricality of myth — the dancer moving fluidly between pure form and vivid storytelling.
To study Kuchipudi is to inherit something older than oneself, and to carry it forward with intention.
The Guru
Founder & Head Instructor · Est. 2000
Smt. Lavanya Yammanur began her dance journey at the age of 5, training in Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, and Folk. A celebrated performer and educator, she established Sai Meghna Dance School in July 2000 — and has spent over 25 years passing the tradition to hundreds of students across Denver, Hyderabad, and Houston.
The Namesake
The school's namesake, Meghna began training under her mother at age 4 and completed her Kuchipudi Rangapravesham at 15. With 75+ stage performances across India and the USA, she earned the Natya Mayuri and Bala Kala Ratna awards. A graduate of Rhodes College in neuroscience, Meghna now works as a Senior Research Data Coordinator at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, and continues to assist with the school's training.
Our Journey
2000 – 2012
Founded in July 2000. Lavanya established the school while raising a family and working as Head Teacher at a Montessori school. Active in the Colorado Telugu Cultural Association. Nurtured the first generation of students.
2013 – 2022
Relocated to India while deepening cultural roots. Continued teaching while working as a Senior SAP Consultant at IBM, before becoming an Academic Coordinator at The Shri Ram Universal School. Completed multiple Rangapraveshams. Meghna trained extensively and gave 50+ stage performances.
2024 – Present
Re-established in the Houston area. Now serving students in person in Sugar Land and online worldwide. Actively involved in TCA Houston, performing at temples and cultural events across Texas.
Programs
Comprehensive training in the ancient art of Kuchipudi for all ages and skill levels. From foundational adavus to advanced repertoire, each student receives personalized attention rooted in authentic guru-shishya tradition.
Complete choreography, rehearsal, and stage preparation for the solo debut performance — the culmination of years of dedicated training.
Live instruction via Google Meet and Zoom for students across the United States and internationally. Same rigorous curriculum, personal attention, flexible scheduling.
Intensive workshops, lecture demonstrations, and cultural event performances. Regular opportunities to perform at temples, festivals, and community celebrations.
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