19/06/2026
There are moments in a teacher’s journey that become milestones of their own. Meghna Lakkundi’s Arangetram in Bengaluru was one such moment for me.
As teachers, we spend years nurturing, correcting, encouraging, inspiring and believing in our students. We witness their growth quietly, lesson after lesson, often far away from the people who know our own journey and understand the standards we strive for. Rarely do we get the opportunity to present our work before our gurus, our peers and the very community that shaped us as artists.
There is often a perception that overseas training must inevitably involve compromises. Meghna shattered that notion. Through her dedication, discipline and relentless hard work, she proved that geography is no barrier when passion, commitment and proper guidance come together. She stepped onto that stage and earned the admiration and respect of some of the most discerning eyes in the Bharatanatyam world. As a guru, there could be no greater reward.
Watching Meghna command the stage in Bengaluru, in front of my Guru Radha Sridhar and many of my fellow dancers was a feeling I will cherish forever. She represented not only herself, but also the standard of training, commitment and artistic excellence we strive to uphold here in Australia.
The event itself was extraordinary in every sense. Anil, Ashwini and their entire family created an atmosphere of celebration that was nothing short of spectacular. Family members travelled from overseas and across India to be part of Meghna’s big day. Grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends all came together with so much love and enthusiasm that the entire occasion felt like a grand wedding celebration.
Then there was Bengaluru itself ... the city where so much of my own artistic journey unfolded. the outstanding live orchestra, the exceptional lighting and the presence of people who have been part of our artistic journey over the several decades elevated the entire experience.
As I look back at these photographs, I see a student who gave her absolute best. I see a family that moved mountains to make her dream possible. I see the blessings of my Guru. I see the support of friends and peers. And I see a full-circle moment that reaffirmed everything I have devoted my life to.
For every teacher, there are a few students whose achievements become your own proudest moments. Meghna’s Arangetram will always be one of mine ❤️
Musical ensemble:
Vocal: Vidwan Debur S Srivathsa
Mridangam: Vidwan KS Bhavani shankar
Veena: Vidwan Shri. Gopal Venkataramana
Flute: Vidwan Shri. Shashank Jodidar
Rhythm Pad: Vidwan Shri. D. Arun Kumar
Arangetram Photography: Shandilya Srivathsa
Pre Arangetram Photofraphy: Fotominded
Costumes: Shri Manivannan
Arangetram MAU: Vimal Kanakraj
Photoshoot MAU: Brindha Venugopal, Bindu Dasari, Gopiha Gajendran, Nandithaa Arulananthan
