Artist Profile
Bharatanatyam as performance, pedagogy, and creative voice
Megha Sanjay is a dynamic Bharatanatyam artist, teacher, and choreographer known for emotive depth, precise technique, and storytelling flair. Trained for over 19 years in the Pandanallur and Vazhuvoor banis under Guru Lakshmi Iyer, her work spans powerful stage performances and visionary leadership behind the scenes.
As a Bharatanatyam dancer, teacher, and choreographer, I bring classical training into conversation with contemporary contexts. My work spans solo performance, ensemble productions, and pedagogy that cultivates both tradition and innovation.
Training & Roots
I began my training at the Abhinay School of Dance (Seattle) under Guru Lakshmi Iyer, with foundations in both the Pandanallur and Vazhuvoor styles. That training laid the groundwork for my development as a performer and teacher. I now continue to deepen my practice through the Margam Dance Company, where I refine technique, expand repertoire, and build new choreographic explorations.
A lifelong practice in Bharatanatyam
Performing, teaching, choreographing, and creating with joy.
Performance
I perform Bharatanatyam works that honor tradition while embracing creativity and collaboration. My repertoire spans solo recitals (Seattle, Bangalore, St.Louis, etc), ensemble productions, and cross-disciplinary projects, each shaped by a love for both discipline and storytelling.
Choreography
My choreographic work ranges from traditional Bharatanatyam repertoire to fusion and semi-classical pieces. I have choreographed for cultural groups such as Balvihar, as well as creating solo and group works within my own practice. Each project balances structure with creativity, highlighting the adaptability of classical movement in different contexts.
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I often collaborate with my mother & guru Lakshmi Iyer, and our goal (through Margam Dance Company) is to adapt movement to fit individual expression, highlighting each dancer's unique style and talent.
Education
I am the co-artistic director of Margam Dance Company, and my students range from beginners to advanced dancers, including those training for Arangetrams and solo performances.
In addition to traditional instruction, I have experience teaching classical technique to students from diverse dance backgrounds, helping them adapt and build a deeper connection to Bharatanatyam. My teaching emphasizes precision, accessibility, and expressive clarity -- with a healthy dose of experimentation and laughter. Teaching experience includes:
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Adjunct Professor of Dance at Webster University (Spring 2026)
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Bharatanatyam workshop, WashU (Spring 2026)
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Supplemental Artist Instructor at the Center of Creative Arts (Fall 2025)
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