What is Bharatanatyam?
Bharatnatyam, one of the oldest dance forms in India, was initiated in the temples of Tamil Nadu before prospering in South of India. The name, ‘bha’, ‘ra’ and ‘ta’, implies a confluence of ‘bhava’ – emotion; ‘raga’ – melody; and ‘tala’ – rhythm. Its theoretical base traces back to the ancient text on performing arts called Natya Shastra.
The essence of this classical dance lies in it being able to evoke a feeling of deep devotion and spiritual calm with its powerful footwork and distinctive gestures. Its deep seated araimandi (half-seated position) and its geometric adavus, make it an exquisite form to behold. A dance that illustrates innumerable anecdotes, continues to inspire several art forms including paintings sculptures.
The essence of this classical dance lies in it being able to evoke a feeling of deep devotion and spiritual calm with its powerful footwork and distinctive gestures. Its deep seated araimandi (half-seated position) and its geometric adavus, make it an exquisite form to behold. A dance that illustrates innumerable anecdotes, continues to inspire several art forms including paintings sculptures.
