Dr Praveena Lammata-Vajja has been learning Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi since she was 5 years old. Her teacher, Guru Avasarala Rukmaji Rao is a disciple of Padmasree Adyar Lakshman (Bharatanatyam - Kalakshetra style) and Padmabhushan Vempati Chinasatyam (Kuchipudi).

She qualified as a doctor from Andhra Medical College, Visakhapatnam and is ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) certified. She is a full time teacher, choreographer and performer of several forms of Indian classical dances. Her lesson plans have been adapted across all age groups and for all levels of experience. She enjoys teaching Indian culture through the channel of dance by using hand mudras or gestures to describe a God, a festival or a story for the younger age groups.  She uses rhythmic, lively music to do semi-classical and classical steps in her adult fitness classes along with stretches, warm-up and yoga.

In addition to her daily lessons, she teaches dance at Bal-Mukund, Irving center. Praveena is also undergoing training in Kathak from Smt Akhila Rao, Kathak Rhythms, Dallas.

Praveena updates herself and is currently working toward getting her Masters Degree in Bharatanatyam from the University of Madras and a Certification in Safe and Effective Dance Practice from Trinity College, London.

Memberships / professional affiliations:

IADMS (International Association for Dance Medicine and Science)

AMCOSA (Andhra Medical College Old Students Association)

TIPS (Texas Indian Physician Society)