Bharatnatyam

One of the most ancient dance forms in India, Bharatnatyam originated from the temples of South India. Embedded within the name is the essence of this dance: “Bha for Bhava or abhinaya and expression, Ra for raga or melody, and Ta for tala or rhythm." The celebration of magnificence of the material body is expressed through Bharatnatyam.

Bharatnatyam is said to have been created by Bharata, the author of the Natya Shastra – a treatise on the ancient forms of dance-drama. Bharata Natyam consists of three separate fundamental aspects: Nritta (rhythmic dance movements), Natya (drama), and Nritya (amalgamation of Nritta and Natya).The essential flavor is Bhakti Rasa, or devotion.

This dance form is said to be practiced by Lord Shiva, as Natarajan. In Hindu Mythology, the whole universe is considered to be the creation of Nataraja, who performs the "Tandava" at the time of annihilation of evil. the attitude is which the symbol of Nataraja is depicted is called the “Ananda Tandava”.

In the 19th century, four brothers referred to as the Tanjore Quartet standardized and documented this dance as a form of performing art. The entire gamut of this dance till date comprises of the compositions of these brothers. Devadasis, or the women who devoted their lives to worship and pleasing the worship of the Gods in the temples, traditionally passed on this dance form through generations. They were taught by their male teachers, or nattuvanars. At the time, the dance was known as “dasiattam”. Music and dance were among the “sixteen hospitalities” offered to the deities to entertain them. In the 20th century, renewed interest in the rich cultural heritage of India led to the recognition of the allure of Bharatnatyam. Eminent artists like E. Krishna Iyer and Rukmani Devi Arundale revived this dance and popularized it. The grace and the remarkable poses of Bharatnatyam has captured the fascination of audiences all over India. Today it is performed by both male and female dancers all over the country and abroad. The inherent devotional fiber however is still preserved.

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