Akila Iyer

🪔 About

Akila Iyer is a prominent Bharatanatyam dancer, choreographer, and educator based in the United States. Her foundational training in Bharatanatyam began in Chennai, India, under the tutelage of Guru Dhananjayan's Bharathakalanjali. This early experience provided her with a strong grounding in the dance form and an appreciation for the art's linguistic beauty. Upon moving to the United States, Iyer's passion for dance was rekindled by Smt. Rekha Balaji, who inspired her to establish her own institution. In 2001, Akila Iyer founded the Guru Vandana Arts Academy. She further refined her choreographic skills and deepened her understanding of the distinct Pandanallur style of Bharatanatyam through her association with Dr. Vasundhara Doraswamy. Through her academy, Iyer provides disciplined and focused training in Bharatanatyam, and her students have performed at various venues across the United States, including the St. Louis Indian Dance Festival, Detroit Bharathiya Temple, The Louisville Yum Center, and Sivan competitions. Iyer is also recognized for her creative dance drama productions, which she stages annually for the Louisville community. Her dedication led to the establishment of the non-profit organization, Guru Vandana Academy, which has organized the annual Geeva Arts Festival in Louisville, Kentucky, since 2012, attracting performers globally. The Guru Vandana Arts Academy has also expanded its curriculum to include music.