Bharatanatyam: The Oldest Traditional Classical Dance of India
Bharatanatyam is a classical Indian dance form with a deep and ancient history.
Bharatanatyam is one of the most prominent and widely practiced classical dance styles in India. Its origins can be traced back to the ancient temples of Southern India, specifically from the state of Tamil Nadu, and it has undergone significant evolution over thousands of years. It is recognized as one of the eight classical dances of India.
Origins: Bharatanatyam has its roots in the sacred traditions of Tamil Nadu, where it was originally known as “Dasi Attam,” meaning the dance of the temple dancers. In the temples, performers known as Devadasis would express their devotion to the deities and narrate religious stories through their dance.
Evolution: Over time, Bharatanatyam has evolved by incorporating influences from various dance forms and cultural practices. It has experienced periods of both growth and decline, shaped by shifting social and political landscapes.
Revival: In the early 20th century, Bharatanatyam faced a decline, prompting efforts for its revival and reform. Rukmini Devi Arundale, a notable dancer and theosophist, played a crucial role in revitalizing the dance form. She worked diligently to dissociate Bharatanatyam from the Devadasi tradition and transform it into a respected and publicly embraced art form.
Elements of Bharatanatyam: The dance is distinguished by its unique components, which include:
a. Nritta: Pure dance movements characterized by intricate footwork, rhythmic patterns, and graceful poses.
b. Nritya: Expressive dance that includes storytelling, emotions, and facial expressions.
c. Natya: Dramatic elements where dancers portray characters and narrate stories from mythology and literature.
Mudras and Abhinaya: Bharatanatyam features a rich array of hand gestures known as “mudras,” which help convey various emotions and tales. The expressive component, called “Abhinaya,” utilizes facial expressions, eye movements, and body language to communicate the narrative.
Costumes and Jewelry: Dancers don traditional attire that includes vibrant costumes adorned with intricate designs, jewelry, and ankle bells that accentuate the rhythm of their movements.
Music: Bharatanatyam is accompanied by classical South Indian music, typically using traditional instruments such as the mridangam, flute, veena, and violin to create a harmonious backdrop for the dance.
Global Recognition: Today, Bharatanatyam is not only cherished in India but also enjoyed worldwide. It has earned international acclaim as a captivating and intricate dance form that showcases India’s rich cultural heritage.
Bharatanatyam continues to thrive as a dynamic and evolving art form, embracing both traditional and contemporary interpretations. It remains an essential part of India’s cultural identity and serves as a source of inspiration for dancers and artists around the globe.
