Jayalakshmi Raman

🪔 About

Jayalakshmi Raman, a distinguished Indian classical dancer specializing in Bharatanatyam, is recognized as a pioneer in promoting Indian arts in both Singapore and Western Australia. Born in Singapore, she embarked on her rigorous training in the early 1960s under the tutelage of the legendary Rukmini Devi Arundale at the esteemed Kalakshetra in Chennai, India. In 1967, she achieved the distinction of being the first person from Singapore to graduate from Kalakshetra. Following her graduation, Raman dedicated a decade to teaching classical Indian dance and performing on local radio and television in Singapore. In 1983, Jayalakshmi Raman moved to Perth, Australia, with her husband, Sri Raman Kuppusamy. The same year, she established the Kalaivani School of Indian Classical Arts, which holds the distinction of being the first Indian classical dance school in Western Australia. Her commitment to cultural enrichment extended to co-founding the North Perth Ethnic Music Centre (later known as Kulcha) in 1983. Since 1984, she has been conducting weekly classes in Indian folk and classical dance, as well as South Indian music, fostering a deep understanding of Indian culture and promoting multiculturalism. With over 56 years of teaching experience, Jayalakshmi Raman continues to lead one of Western Australia's longest-standing Indian classical dance schools. Beyond teaching, Raman is a prolific choreographer, having created numerous dance dramas. In 2021, she formed and now leads Geethvani, Kalaivani's traditional Carnatic orchestra, contributing vocals and cymbals. Her profound impact on the arts has earned her recognition as an outstanding ambassador for the Kalakshetra Foundation and a place on India Today's list of '100 People Who Shaped India.' As of August 2024, Jayalakshmi Raman is 78 years old, continuing her legacy of artistic and cultural contribution. Awards & Honours: Lifetime Achievement Award ('Natya Aachaarya Mani') (2015), Jeeyar Award of Excellence for her Pioneering Service to Indian Classical Dance in Western Australia (2015).