Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form from southern India, particularly from Tamil Nadu. With its roots in ancient temple rituals, it has a long history of being not just a performance art but a spiritual practice. In the past, it was performed in temples as an offering to the gods, making it an intimate part of religious and cultural life.

The name “Bharatanatyam” reflects the core elements of the dance: Bha for bhava (emotion), Ra for raga (melody), and Ta for tala (rhythm). Together, they define what makes this dance form so powerful — it’s a perfect blend of expression, music, and timing. It tells stories, often from ancient Hindu stories of the Gods and Goddesses, through a combination of movement, facial expressions, and hand gestures known as mudras. These gestures and expressions are crucial in bringing the characters and emotions to life for the audience.

A Bharatanatyam performance follows a specific sequence. It begins with Alarippu, which is like a warm-up, helping the dancer focus and invoke the energy needed for the performance. Then comes Jatiswaram, a rhythmic piece showcasing the dancer’s technical skill. The heart of the performance is Varnam, where the dancer’s emotions and expressions shine through, telling stories of devotion, love, or valor. Through Abhinaya, or expressiveness, the dancer communicates the emotions of the characters, helping the audience connect deeply with the performance.

The visual beauty of Bharatanatyam is also reflected in the dancer’s attire. The bright, colorful silk costumes and traditional jewelry enhance the elegance of the movements. Ankle bells, or golusu, add rhythm to each step, making the dance a sensory experience, with the sound of the bells harmonising with the dancer’s movements.

Although Bharatanatyam has ancient roots, it continues to evolve. Today, it is performed on stages around the world, and while it stays true to its classical origins, modern dancers often introduce new themes and narratives, making it both timeless and contemporary.