Krishnaveni Lakshmanan

🪔 About

Krishnaveni Lakshmanan was a distinguished Indian classical dancer and guru of Bharatanatyam, renowned for her profound association with Kalakshetra. Born in Palani, she moved to Madras at the age of three and began her dance training at five, formally joining Kalakshetra in 1950 when she was eight years old. She was a direct disciple of the institution's founder, Rukmini Devi Arundale, and also received training from other esteemed gurus such as S. Sarada, Sarada Hoffman, and N.S. Jayalakshmi. Lakshmanan's career at Kalakshetra spanned five decades, culminating in her serving as its principal from 1997 to 2000. She was a star performer in Kalakshetra's iconic dance-dramas, with many lead roles choreographed specifically for her by Rukmini Devi. Her memorable portrayals included Sita in the six-part 'Ramayanam', Usha in 'Usha Parinayam', Andal in 'Andal Charithram', Radha in 'Gita Govindam', Rukmini in 'Rukmini Kalyanam', and Vasantavalli in 'Kutrala Kuravanji'. Beyond her institutional roles, she was also an accomplished solo Bharatanatyam dancer. Krishnaveni Lakshmanan possessed a rare combination of artistic talents, including a strong foundation in music and literature, theoretical knowledge, exceptional choreographic skills, and a remarkable memory. She also founded her own performing group, 'Krishnanjali', and choreographed 20 dance dramas. As a teacher, Krishnaveni Lakshmanan was deeply committed, emphasizing equal proficiency in both *abhinaya* (expressive dance) and *nritta* (pure dance). She focused on developing students' strengths and encouraged those with teaching potential. Krishnaveni Lakshmanan passed away on August 29, 2004, in Chennai at the age of 62. Her legacy is continued by her daughter and disciple, Gayatri Krishnaveni Lakshmanan, who is also a prominent Bharatanatyam dancer and teacher. Awards & Honours: Rukmini Devi Medal for excellence in Arts (2003), UNESCO medal, Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1986), Kalaimamani, Nrithya Choodamani.