Smt. Ramya Shanmugam  Bharathanatyam artist, teacher and founder of Laya

My dance journey began at the age of four, simply because I loved dressing up and performing on stage. That early spark of excitement blossomed into a lifelong passion for dance. Over the years, Bharathanatyam became a source of strength, confidence and self-expression, shaping who I am both on and off the stage.

Born and raised in Chennai, India, I began my training under Guru Kalaimamani Smt. Saroja Kameswaran and continue my training today under Guru Kalaimamani Smt. Kavitha Charles, disciple of the late Kalaimamani Smt. Indra Rajan, in the revered Pandanallur tradition. More than two decades later, I remain a devoted practioner of this ancient art form, continually learning and growing under the guidance of my Gurus.

Alongside my dance journey, I have built a career as a leader in the Australian university sector. Through every stage of life, Bharathanatyam has been my greatest teacher, instilling discipline, perseverance, resilience, humility and the confidence to embrace new challenges.

Laya was born from a desire to share those gifts with others.

Named after the Sanskrit word for rhythm, Laya is more than a dance school—it is a welcoming community where people of all ages can discover the joy of movement, creativity and connection. Rooted in the timeless tradition of Bharathanatyam and complemented by contemporary movement classes, Laya offers a holistic approach to learning that nurtures both artistic and personal growth.

My hope is that every student who walks through our doors leaves with more than dance skills. Through movement, music and expression, they gain confidence, self-discipline, endurance, meaningful connections and a deeper understanding of their own potential.

Today, I am grateful to bring Laya to the Gold Coast, a region rich in arts, culture and creativity. I invite you to discover your own rhythm, embrace the journey, and experience the transformative power of dance.