Lakeville Area Community Education

With over 30 years of experience, she is not only an artist but also a source of knowledge and a genuine embodiment of passion for this exquisite dance form.

Guru Sivanuja is a distinguished graduate of the renowned Kalakshetra College of Fine Arts, where she developed a deep foundation in classical Bharatanatyam. She further honed her skills under two giants of Bharatanatyam. Her artistry was also influenced by the mentorship of Padma Bhushan Awardee Dr. Padma Subramaniam, where she mastered the complex Karanas that characterize Bharatanatyam’s expressive language. Additionally, she is a trained musician.
Guru Sivanuja’s contributions to the arts are widely acknowledged, and she holds numerous significant positions. She acts as a coordinator for Griffin College London in Minnesota and as a Guest Artist at Ordway. She was an active participant in the Community Advisory Panel and the Program & Education Committee at the Cowles Center, where she diligently works to promote the growth and appreciation of Bharatanatyam in our community and beyond. Notably, Guru Sivanuja is also engaged in pioneering medical research projects that investigate the therapeutic benefits of dance movement for specific conditions, as well as in educational initiatives aimed at making Bharatanatyam accessible and relevant to varied audiences.
Through her dedication, visionary leadership, and steadfast commitment to nurturing talent, Guru Sivanuja Balaji continues to motivate and empower numerous dancers and artists. Her impact reaches far beyond the stage, as she fosters a new generation of practitioners who carry the legacy of Bharatanatyam with pride and integrity.