Bharatanatyam, one of India's most revered classical dance forms, is a mesmerizing blend of grace, emotion, and rhythm.

With its roots deeply embedded in the rich cultural heritage of India, it has become an iconic symbol of the country's artistic expression.

Known for its storytelling techniques, intricate footwork, and expressive facial expressions, making it both a visual and emotional experience.

Origin of Bharatanatyam

The origins of Bharatanatyam trace back over 2,000 years, and it is believed to have emerged from the temples of Tamil Nadu in South India. Initially, Bharatanatyam was performed exclusively by the devadasis, or temple dancers, as a way to express devotion and reverence to the gods. The term Bharatanatyam itself is a combination of several Sanskrit words: Bha (expression), Ra (melody), Ta (rhythm), and Natyam (dance), symbolizing the various elements that make up this unique and powerful art form.

Bharatanatyam was traditionally performed as a part of temple rituals, meant to honour deities in temple sanctums. The dance was considered a sacred offering, with every gesture, movement, and expression imbued with spiritual significance. Over time, it transitioned from temple rituals to a more formalized performance art, becoming popular on the stage across India and the world.

The Historical Journey

During the reign of the Chola dynasty (9th to 13th century CE), Bharatanatyam flourished as the devadasi system was institutionalized in temple culture. This period marked a significant era for Indian classical dance, with Bharatanatyam reaching new heights of recognition and artistic refinement. The devadasis not only danced but also acted as custodians of temple rituals and cultural traditions.

However, the dance form faced a period of decline during British rule in India (between 1858 and 1947). With the suppression of many native traditions and the decline of temples as cultural centres, Bharatanatyam, along with other classical arts, was marginalized. The devadasi system was viewed as outdated, and by the early 20th century, Bharatanatyam's future seemed uncertain.

The Revival of Bharatanatyam

The resurgence of Bharatanatyam in the 20th century can largely be attributed to visionary figures like E. Krishna Iyer and Rukmini Devi Arundale. While Iyer fought for the dance form's revival as a respected art, Rukmini Devi Arundale is credited with transforming Bharatanatyam from its temple roots into a classical performance art for the stage. She founded Kalakshetra, a dance academy in Chennai, where the dance form was codified, refined, and taught systematically.

Rukmini Devi's efforts to give Bharatanatyam a more respectable image, free from its associations with the devadasi tradition, helped in its revival. By the mid-20th century, Bharatanatyam had become widely accepted across India as a highly regarded classical dance form.

Key Elements of Bharatanatyam

The dance form is characterized by several key elements that distinguish it from other classical dance forms:

Postures and Movements: Bharatanatyam is known for its distinct body postures and movements, which involve a balance between linear and geometric poses. The dancer's hands, eyes, and feet work in unison to create rhythmic patterns and tell a story.

Abhinaya: The use of facial expressions (abhinaya) is crucial in Bharatanatyam. Through these expressions, the dancer conveys emotions and enacts characters from Indian mythology, making storytelling a central feature of the dance.

Adavus: These are basic dance units or steps that form the foundation of Bharatanatyam. They are categorized based on the type of movement and rhythm, and when combined, they create the full dance sequence.

Costume and Makeup: Bharatanatyam dancers wear vibrant silk saris with gold borders, along with intricate jewellery that symbolizes deities or celestial beings. The makeup, especially the expressive eyes, plays a key role in highlighting the emotions being conveyed through the dance.

Bharatanatyam in Modern Times

In the modern era, Bharatanatyam has gone global. Dancers from various parts of the world have embraced this classical art form, and performances are now held internationally. The dance form continues to evolve, with many artists experimenting by blending traditional Bharatanatyam with contemporary themes or other dance styles, while still maintaining its core principles.

Bharatanatyam, with its intricate rhythms, dynamic movements, and expressive storytelling, remains one of India's most treasured classical dance forms. Dear Lykkers, from its origins in the temples of Tamil Nadu to its global presence on prestigious stages, the dance continues to inspire both performers and audiences. As it adapts to the modern world while holding onto its ancient roots, Bharatanatyam exemplifies the resilience and timelessness of Indian classical arts.