History and Origins
- Ancient Roots: Bharatnatyam traces its origins back to ancient Hindu temples and classical dance forms described in the Natya Shastra, an ancient Sanskrit text on performing arts attributed to the sage Bharata Muni.
- Traditional Context: Originally performed as a temple dance by Devadasis (women dedicated to temple service), it was known as “Sadir” before being renamed Bharatnatyam in the 20th century to reflect its classical heritage.
Characteristics
- Dance Style: Bharatnatyam is a solo dance form characterized by a combination of:
- Nritta: Pure dance that focuses on rhythm and movement.
- Nritya: Expressive dance that conveys emotions and tells a story.
- Natya: Dramatic presentation that includes the enactment of themes and characters
- Postures and Movements: It involves intricate footwork, rhythmic patterns, and specific postures.The dance is known for its “adavus” (basic dance steps) and “mudras” (hand gestures).
- Costume: Performers traditionally wear a vibrant silk saree or costume with intricate jewelry and makeup. The attire includes a fan-like pleated skirt that allows for elaborate movements.
- Music and Accompaniment: The music for Bharatnatyam is typically Carnatic classical music, featuring a vocalist, a mridangam (drum), and other traditional instruments like the violin and flute. The lyrics often draw from Hindu mythology and devotional themes.
- Abhinaya: This is the art of expression in Bharatnatyam. Dancers use facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movements to convey emotions and tell stories, often from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Training and Performance
- Guru-Shishya Tradition: Training in Bharatnatyam traditionally follows the Guru-Shishya (teacher-student) system, with rigorous training in technique, expression, and performance.
- Recitals and Performances: Performances are structured in a traditional format, beginning with a “Alarippu” (invocation), followed by “Jatiswaram” (pure dance), “Varnam” (main piece with dance and expression), and concluding with “Tillana” (rhythmic piece) and “Tillana” (closing piece).
Modern Context
- Revival and Adaptation: Bharatnatyam saw a revival in the 20th century thanks to efforts by prominent dancers like Rukmini Devi Arundale, who redefined and popularized the form, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- Global Presence: Today, Bharatnatyam is performed and taught worldwide, with numerous festivals, dance schools, and cultural events dedicated to this classical art form.
Cultural Significance
- Religious and Cultural Heritage: Bharatnatyam is deeply rooted in South Indian culture and religious traditions. It plays a significant role in preserving and promoting traditional Indian art forms.
- Artistic Expression: It is celebrated for its ability to convey complex emotions and narratives through a combination of technical skill and expressive artistry.
In summary, Bharatnatyam is a rich and intricate classical dance form that combines rhythm, expression, and storytelling. It holds a special place in Indian cultural heritage and continues to be a vibrant and evolving art form globally.