Bharathanatyam

Overview

Bharathanatyam is one of the oldest and most revered classical dance forms of India, originating from the temples of Tamil Nadu in South India. The word “Bharathanatyam” is derived from three Sanskrit elements: “Bha” (emotion), “Ra” (music), and “Ta” (rhythm), literally meaning “the dance that expresses emotions through music and rhythm.”

History & Origin

Bharathanatyam evolved in the temples of Tamil Nadu, where dancers (devadasis) performed to honor the gods. These sacred performances were integral to temple rituals and worship. Over centuries, the dance form was refined and systematized by masters like Tanjore Quartet (the four brothers who shaped its modern form) and later revived by reformers in the 20th century.

From its temple origins to international concert stages, Bharathanatyam represents the continuity of Indian classical tradition while adapting to contemporary audiences.

Key Components

Intricate hand gestures and expressive poses define Bharathanatyam

Mudras (Hand Gestures)

Bharathanatyam uses over 100 distinct hand gestures, each carrying specific meanings. These mudras tell stories and express emotions, making the hands an instrument of narrative communication.

Footwork (Tala)

Rhythmic foot patterns that mark beats and time cycles. The rhythmic variations create mesmerizing patterns on the stage floor, often accompanied by small bells (ghungroos) worn around the ankles.

Facial Expressions (Rasa)

The dancer’s face conveys nine principal emotions (rasas): love, courage, disgust, anger, wonder, fear, sorrow, joy, and tranquility. Subtle movements of the eyes, eyebrows, and lips communicate these emotions to the audience.

Body Postures (Aramandi)

The characteristic stance with knees bent, feet apart, and body held in perfect alignment. This powerful posture is foundational to all movements.

Traditional Performance Structure

A classical Bharathanatyam performance (margam) follows a traditional sequence:

• Alarippu: An opening sequence establishing rhythm without music or words
• Jathiswaram: Pure dance movements aligned with rhythmic patterns
• Shabdam: Dance with lyrics, often devotional in nature
• Varnam: The centerpiece, combining pure dance and interpretation
• Padam: Lyrical pieces expressing romantic or devotional themes
• Javali: Light, rhythmic pieces often with playful or amorous themes
• Tillana: The finale, celebrating pure dance and rhythm

Costumes & Adornments

Elaborate traditional costumes with gold jewelry and flowers

Bharathanatyam costumes are elaborate and symbolic:

• Sari/Uttariya: A draped silk garment, traditionally in vibrant colors with gold borders
• Ghungroos: Ankle bells that create rhythmic sounds during footwork
• Bindhi & Face Paint: Intricate makeup highlighting facial features
• Jewelry: Traditional gold or temple jewelry adorning the neck, wrists, and waist
• Flowers: Fresh jasmine or artificial flowers adorning the hair (gajra)

Bharathanatyam Today

Today, Bharathanatyam is performed worldwide and is recognized as one of India’s most prestigious classical dance forms. It is taught in universities, performed at international festivals, and practiced by both men and women globally. The arangetram (graduation performance) remains a significant milestone for every serious student of this art form.