Guru Sireesha Avadhanam

Sireesha Avadhanam has established herself as a distinguished Kuchipudi artist and mentor in San Diego. With over four decades of rigorous training, she initially learned under Guru Sarada Devi, an alumnus of the Kuchipudi Art Academy, Chennai, and trained in Bharatanatyam under Guru Late Rama Anjaneyulu of Perini Arts Academy. Sireesha further deepened her expertise by studying the kinesthetics of Kuchipudi and the complexities of rhythm under Guru Anupama Kylash, and advanced her skills in the components and dimensions of Abhinaya under Guru Rama Devi. She explored various dance forms and completed her Master’s thesis under the guidance of Guru Dr. Yashoda Thakore. Sireesha continues to receive advanced training in tala under Sri Renuka Prasad.

Sireesha’s contributions to Indian classical dance have been widely recognized. She has received several prestigious awards, including:

• Kala Bhushan by Kala Peetam, Hyderabad

• Natya Sindhuri from Kala Kendram

• Natya Kala Nidhi from Rayalaseema Arts Association

• Kuchipudi Excellence Award from the Andhra Pradesh State Cultural Commission

• Award of Recognition from the U.S. House of Representatives

• Distinguished Woman of 2023 by the American Telugu Association

• Distinguished Women of 2025 by San Diego Telugu Association

Beyond her artistic achievements, Sireesha actively serves as a member of various Indian associations and Hindu temples, and volunteers for nonprofit organizations supporting elders and mental health awareness. She and her students have conducted lecture demonstrations, enriching academic and cultural discussions on Kuchipudi across the USA. 

Students of Manjeera Academy play a pivotal role in spreading awareness of this classical art across academic, traditional, and virtual platforms.