Bharata Natyam
The Bharata Natyam is a classical dance form that is considered to be a fire-dance that originated from the state of Tamil Nadu. It usually lasts two to two-and-a-half hours. Its origins can be stemmed from performances of Devadasis (women who serve in temples) long ago and from the teachings of the 'Natya Shastra' and 'Abhinaya Darpanam'. It was first called the 'Sadeer Attam" of Ancient India and has developed into one of the most popular dances of the world today -- due to its purity. elegance and statuesque poses.
Dance Elements
There are 3 types of dance:
The dance form is based on 'Adavu' (steps) nd communication is done by facial expressions (bhavabhinaya) and hand gestures (hastas). The performance usually starts with the prayers to God Ganapathi and worship of Nataraja Moorthi.
There are 4 kinds of abhinaya (expressions) in the dance:
There is also a sequence for the performance:
- Nritta: a pure dance without any emotions, expressions
- Nritya: has expressions, emotions and a meaning is shown by hand gestures
- Natya: a performer portrays a character
The dance form is based on 'Adavu' (steps) nd communication is done by facial expressions (bhavabhinaya) and hand gestures (hastas). The performance usually starts with the prayers to God Ganapathi and worship of Nataraja Moorthi.
There are 4 kinds of abhinaya (expressions) in the dance:
- Anghika: physical or body movements
- Vachika: the song or poetry being played/recited
- Aaharya: jewelry and costumes
- Satvika: involuntary movements
There is also a sequence for the performance:
- Alaripu: A presentation of the Tala punctuated by simple syllables spoken by the dancer; an invocation to the gods to bless the performance.
- Jatiswaram: An abstract dance where the drums set the beat. Dancers display versatility in elaborate footwork and graceful movements of the body.
- Shabdam: The dancing is accompanied by a poem or song with a devotional or amorous theme.
- Varnam: The center piece of the performance. It is the longest section of the dance punctuated with the most complex and difficult movements. Positions of the hands and body tell a story, usually of love and the longing for the lover.
- Padam: a lyrical section where the dancer "speaks" of some aspect of love: devotion to the Supreme Being; or of love of mother for child; or the love of lovers separated and reunited.
- Tillana: The final section is a pure dance when the virtuosity of the music is reflected in the complex footwork and captivating poses of the dancer.
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Costume
The costume is basically a combination of pajamas and jackets made from Kanchipuram and Banarasi silk. Performers also adorn themselves with varying jewelry and ornaments (earrings, necklaces, bells around ankles and wrists, jasmine garlands, etc.). which are often called 'Temple Jewelry'. The main purpose of the costumes is to project the aura of the dancers. Additionally, the anklets with bells (gajjalu) are used to assess the performance of dancers. If the bells are rarely heard during a performance, it means the dancer has excellent control over her own movements.
Music
The music of Bharata Natyam is based on Carnatic classical music of South India. The instruments in the ensemble include, the mridangam (drum), nagaswaram (long pipe horn made from a black wood), the flute, violin and veena (stringed instrument).