Bharatnatyam is a form of Indian classical dance. It is rooted in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, around 2000 years old. Its traditions and steps are rooted in Hindu religious practices and worship. The dance movements are characterized, by bent legs(Aramandi), symbolic hand gestures(Mudras), and dramatic and exaggerated facial expressions.
Meaning of the Word
Bharatnatyam was derived from joining two Sanskrit words: Natyam meaning dance, and Bharata, which has three sounds; Bha, meaning bhava or emotions, then Ra, meaning raga or melody and Ta meaning tala or rhythm. Therefore the term Bha-Ra-Ta-Natyam, means a dance portraying emotion, melody, and rhythm.
History
Bharatnatyam originated from the text Natya Shastra, which is a detailed handbook on the dramatic art of Sanskrit theatre. It grew its roots and laid its foundation in temples, to deepen the religious meaning and symbolism within the dance.
Ancient
- The theoretical structure of Bharatnatyam is known as Sadir. Legends of Lord Bhrama reveal him as the creator of Bharatnatyam. This style of dance started in South Indian temples, dating back to 300 BCE. Devadasis, who are dancers dedicated to serving the Hindu Lords as servants, performed this dance style along with spoken services.
Medieval
- This style of dance grew to be quite popular within South India. Within Thillai Natarajar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is embellished with 108 Bharatnatyam poses, carved into panels. This style of dance was popularly shown and presented in temples in the form of sculptures, carvings, and dances.
Modern
- At the start of British colonial rule, they viewed not only Devadasis as disgraceful, but the art of Bharatnayam as well, equating it with the acts of peasants. They pushed for a ban on various classical Indian art forms, ending the temple Bharatnatyam dances.
- Before long, classical art revivalists began working to return this long-gone art form. E. Krishna Iyer, a lawyer, activist, and classical artist, played a pivotal role in the revival of Bharatanatyam dance during a tumultuous period. Despite facing incarceration on charges of nationalism, Iyer remained committed to his cause. While in prison, he collaborated with theosophist and choreographer Rukmini Devi Arundale to advocate for the renewal of Bharatanatyam. Upon their release, they founded the Madras Music Academy, where they worked tirelessly with the community to preserve and promote Bharatanatyam, along with other traditional art forms. Together, their efforts saved Bharatanatyam from obscurity and contributed significantly to its revival and continued legacy.
Personal Connection
Bharatnatyam has always been a huge part of my life. The music begins, the rhythmic beats filling the air, and as I move, I feel an inexplicable connection to something larger than myself – a connection to centuries of tradition, spirituality, and cultural identity.
Culturally, this form of dance is a way for me to express and connect with my culture and roots, I wouldn’t be able to do it without it. Every mudra, footwork, and expression tells a story to the viewer and portrays stories of love, devotion, and celebration intertwined with my cultural identity. In this dance, I find comfort, dancing in the way of my ancestors, in the very temple that this dance originated from.
Beyond that, each dance is a chance to mirror the complexities of emotion and experience that we call humanity. Each performance is not an expression, but a chance to push myself. Bharatnatyam allows me to convey my emotions and stories to my audiences profoundly, transcending every barrier. Without words, without talking, instead of talking from one soul to another.
Bharatnatyam is a journey of discipline and dedication. The hours of practice, the rigorous training, the relentless pursuit of perfection – all are essential aspects of the dancer’s path. Yet, amidst the sweat and exertion and long hours on the same step, there’s a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment that comes from finishing a complex sequence or interpreting a piece of music with depth.
As I look ahead, to my future performances and classes, there is a constant realization and awareness that my journey as a Bharatnatyam dancer is an ongoing adventure. It’s not just about perfecting the steps or telling stories through movements—it’s about finding joy in every way, every gesture, and every beat of the music.