Bharatanatyam: The Classical Dance of Devotion and Grace

Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest and most revered classical dance forms of India, originating from Tamil Nadu. It is a dance of devotion, deeply rooted in Hindu temples, where it was performed as an offering to the deities. Bharatanatyam is known for its grace, purity, expressions, and intricate footwork, making it a highly structured and spiritual art form.

Bharatnatyam Dance style

# Etymology and Meaning of the Bharatnatyam:

The name Bharatanatyam is derived from three essential components:

• Bhava (Expression)

• Raga (Melody)

• Tala (Rhythm)

• Natyam (Dance)

Together, these elements form the foundation of Bharatanatyam, making it a complete and holistic dance form.

# History and Origin of Bharatnatyam:

Bharatanatyam has its roots in the temples of South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where it was performed by temple dancers known as Devadasis. It was an essential part of religious rituals and was used to narrate stories from Hindu scriptures like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas.

The dance form faced a decline during the colonial era but was revived in the 20th century by prominent dancers like Rukmini Devi Arundale, who redefined Bharatanatyam as a respectable art form suitable for stage performances.

# Key Features of Bharatanatyam :

1. Nritta (Pure Dance)

         

Nritta (Pure Dance)

Nritta is the technical aspect of Bharatanatyam that involves rhythmic movements without expressions. It focuses on precise footwork, graceful movements, and geometric patterns. The main nritta elements are:

• Adavus : Basic dance steps combined with hand gestures.

• Jatis : Sequences of rhythmic movements.

• Teermanams : Concluding movements that create a finishing touch to a sequence.

2. Nritya (Expressive Dance)

     

Nritya (Expressive Dance)

Nritya involves expressions (abhinaya), hand gestures (mudras), and facial expressions (bhavas) to convey emotions and narrate stories. The dancer uses their eyes, eyebrows, and lips to depict various sentiments.

3. Natya (Dramatic Dance)

Natya (Dramatic Dance)

Natya is the dramatic aspect of Bharatanatyam, where the dancer enacts a story with emotions and expressions, often portraying multiple characters.

# Hand Gestures (Mudras) of Bharatnatyam :

Hand Gestures (Mudras) of Bharatnatyam 

Mudras play a vital role in Bharatanatyam, helping convey stories and meanings. There are two main types:

• Asamyukta Mudras (Single-hand gestures) – Used to depict objects, nature, or emotions.

• Samyukta Mudras (Double-hand gestures) – Used for storytelling and symbolic representations.

# Examples of mudras done in Bharatnatyam:

• Pataka (Flag) – Used to indicate clouds, river, or denial.

• Tripataka (Three Parts of a Flag) – Used for a crown or lightning.

• Katakamukha (Opening of a Bracelet) – Used to show holding a garland.

# Costume and Jewellery used in Bharatnatyam:

The Bharatanatyam costume is vibrant and elegant, resembling a saree but designed for comfort and movement. It includes

• A pleated fan-like cloth in the center, which opens gracefully with leg movements.

• Ornate jewelry such as headpieces, necklaces, armlets, and anklets (ghungroos).

• Makeup with darkened eyes, red lips, and expressive eyebrows to enhance facial expressions.

# Musical Accompaniment :

Bharatanatyam is performed to Carnatic music, which includes:

• Vocalist – Sings compositions in Tamil, Telugu, Sanskrit, or Kannada.

• Mridangam – A percussion instrument that provides rhythm.

• Violin/Flute – Adds melody to the performance.

• Nattuvangam – Cymbals played by the dance guru to maintain rhythm.

# Postures and Movements of Bharatnatyam:

Bharatanatyam has distinct postures and movements that create aesthetic beauty. Some of them are:

• Araimandi (Half-sitting posture) – The fundamental stance with bent knees.

• Samapadam (Straight posture) – Standing with feet together, signifying balance.

• Alidha and Pratyalidha – Warrior-like postures used in storytelling.

# Significance and Themes :

Bharatanatyam is not just a dance but a medium of devotion and storytelling. It often depicts:

• Mythological stories about Lord Shiva (Nataraja), Krishna, Vishnu, and Devi.

• Spiritual themes like bhakti (devotion) and moksha (liberation).

• Feminine grace and power, making it a dance that blends strength and beauty.

# Evolution of Bharatanatyam Over Time:

1. Temple Dance Era (Ancient and Medieval Periods)

• Bharatanatyam originated in the temples of Tamil Nadu and was performed by Devadasis (female temple dancers) as a form of worship to deities.

• The dance was deeply spiritual, focusing on Hindu religious themes and mythological stories.

• Performed inside temple premises as part of daily rituals and festivals.

2. Decline During the Colonial Era (18th-19th Century)

• With British colonization, Bharatanatyam faced a decline as temple traditions were disrupted, and the Devadasi system was abolished.

• The dance was looked down upon due to social and political changes, pushing it to the margins of society.

3. Revival and Reformation (20th Century)

• Rukmini Devi Arundale (1904–1986) played a crucial role in reviving Bharatanatyam, making it a respected art form for stage performances.

• She removed certain sensual elements and gave the dance a refined structure, making it more acceptable to the elite society.

• Bharatanatyam moved from temples to grand stages and gained international recognition.

4. Global Expansion and Modernization (Late 20th - 21st Century)

• Bharatanatyam became a global phenomenon, with performers from different cultures learning and presenting the art.

• New themes, such as social issues and contemporary subjects, were incorporated into performances while maintaining the traditional structure.

• The use of technology, innovative lighting, and digital platforms helped Bharatanatyam reach a wider audience.

• Fusion experiments blended Bharatanatyam with other dance styles like ballet, contemporary, and jazz.

# Famous Bharatanatyam Artists and Their Contributions :

1. Rukmini Devi Arundale (1904–1986)

• One of the most influential figures in Bharatanatyam’s revival.
• Elevated Bharatanatyam from a temple dance to a highly respected stage art.
• Introduced innovative choreography and brought global attention to the dance.

2. Balasaraswati (1918–1984)

• A legendary Bharatanatyam dancer known for her exceptional abhinaya (expressive storytelling).
• Maintained the traditional temple dance style and emphasized emotional depth.
• Recognized internationally, receiving awards like the Padma Bhushan and Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship.

3. Padma Subrahmanyam (b. 1943)

• A scholar, dancer, and choreographer known for her research on Bharatanatyam’s origins.
• Introduced the karanas (poses described in Natya Shastra) into modern Bharatanatyam.
• Received numerous awards, including the Padma Bhushan.

4. Yamini Krishnamurthy (b. 1940)

• A versatile dancer who excelled in Bharatanatyam as well as Kuchipudi.
• Known for her energetic performances and powerful stage presence.
• Honored with the Padma Vibhushan and Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.

5. Alarmel Valli (b. 1957)

• Known for her graceful, lyrical movements and deep knowledge of abhinaya.
• Has performed Bharatanatyam across the world, bringing global recognition to the dance.

6. Malavika Sarukkai (b. 1959)

• A contemporary Bharatanatyam dancer who blends traditional and modern themes.
• Known for her experimental approach, incorporating poetry and abstract themes in her performances.

7. Priyadarsini Govind (b. 1965)

• A master of abhinaya, known for her ability to convey deep emotions through facial expressions.
• Trained under renowned gurus and has performed extensively worldwide.

8. Shobana (b. 1966)

• A celebrated dancer and actress who has popularized Bharatanatyam through cinema and stage performances.

• Recipient of the Padma Shri award for her contributions to Indian classical dance.

Bharatanatyam has evolved from a sacred temple dance to a globally appreciated stage art. Thanks to dedicated artists and modern adaptations, it continues to flourish while maintaining its deep spiritual and cultural essence. Today, Bharatanatyam is not only a medium of storytelling but also a bridge connecting tradition with contemporary artistic expression.

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