Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam, A graceful, ancient Indian dance form, blending tradition and expression with intricate movements and storytelling through rhythm and emotion.
Bharatanatyam
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A classical Indian dance form, is a mesmerizing blend of intricate footwork, graceful expressions, and storytelling. It embodies the rich cultural heritage of India, captivating audiences with its timeless beauty.
"Nritta Dhyana's aim and mission is to permanently preserve the rich classical dance and heritage of India. It is our goal to ensure the torch stays lit for the future
generations to come."
- Guru Smt. Arundhati Singha John
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Bharatanatyam Dance Courses
Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form that traces its roots to the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This mesmerizing art form, steeped in tradition and history, is more than just a dance; it is a profound expression of culture, spirituality, and storytelling.
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Origins and History
Bharatanatyam's history can be traced back to the ancient temples of Tamil Nadu, where it evolved as a sacred dance ritual performed by Devadasis, the temple dancers. Initially known as Sadir Attam, the dance was a form of worship dedicated to the deities, with intricate hand gestures (mudras) and elaborate footwork symbolizing stories from Hindu mythology. Over centuries, Bharatanatyam evolved, blending elements from various regions of India, and eventually found its place as a classical dance form.
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Technical Elements
One of the defining features of Bharatanatyam is its precise and intricate footwork. Dancers wear ankle bells (ghungroo) that produce rhythmic sounds, adding an auditory dimension to the performance. The intricate hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements (known as abhinaya) allow dancers to convey a wide range of emotions and stories. The dance often involves complex compositions of rhythm and melody, accompanied by live music featuring instruments like the mridangam, flute, violin, and veena.
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Spirituality and Devotion
Bharatanatyam is deeply rooted in spirituality and devotion. Many traditional performances begin with an invocation to the gods, and the dance itself often portrays stories from Hindu mythology, where gods and goddesses take center stage. The dancer becomes a conduit for divine expression, connecting with both the audience and the spiritual realm. This spiritual dimension is an integral part of the dance, infusing it with a profound sense of purpose.
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Costumes and Makeup
Bharatanatyam costumes are as intricate as the dance itself. Female dancers wear traditional attire that includes a vibrant silk sari, adorned with intricate jewelry and flowers in their hair. Elaborate makeup, featuring expressive eye makeup and red lips, enhances the dancer's facial expressions, allowing the audience to connect with the emotions being conveyed. The overall effect is a visual feast that transports the viewer to a world of timeless beauty.
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Preservation and Revival
Bharatanatyam, like many classical art forms, faced challenges in its journey through history. In the colonial era, it was stigmatized and marginalized. However, dedicated artists and scholars worked tirelessly to preserve and revive this ancient dance form. Rukmini Devi Arundale, a pioneering dancer and cultural revivalist, played a pivotal role in elevating Bharatanatyam's status and restoring its respectability.
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Global Impact
Today, Bharatanatyam has transcended geographical boundaries and is celebrated worldwide. Its graceful movements, intricate storytelling, and spiritual depth have captivated audiences far beyond India's borders. Dancers from diverse backgrounds have embraced this art form, enriching it with new perspectives while maintaining its core essence.
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Meet our Gurus
Brief profiles of our Gurus who form the bedrock of Nritta Dhyana. Their journey and passion are a lighthouse, eternally illuminating a path toward the revival of Indian art forms.
Bharatanatyam Course Syllabus
PRACTICALS
THEORY
1. Tatadavu
2. Natadavu
3. Pakka adavu ta tei tei ta
4. Kuttita methu adavu
5. Periya adavu Tat tei ta ha(till 3)
6. Korvai adavu tat tei tam(till 5)
7. Utplavana adavu 1st
8.Mandi adavu 1st
9. Dit Dit tei adavu
10.Ta hat ta jem tari ta adavu
11.Paichal adavu 1st
12.Tat dit ta adavu
13.Sloka
14.Alaripu(tisram)
15.Natesha Kautvam
Course Duration: 2 Years
Examinations: End of the 2nd year
1. Asamyukta Hasta
2. Samyukta Hasta
3. Drishti Vedha
4. Shiro Bedha
5. Grieve Vedha
6. Postures- Samam, Ayatam,Muramandi
7. Talam - Adi,Roopakam
8. Talam chart
9. Vinoiyogas- Till Shukatunda Hasta Viniyoga
10. Mandala bedha
11. Pada Bedha - Utplavana,Brahamari,Chari
12. Importance of Namaskar
13. Prayers
14. 8 Classical dances of India
15. About Bharatanatyam,Kuchipudi,Katak
16. Notes on Nritta, Nritya, Natya
17. Notes on Abhinaya,Rasa, Bhava
18.Navarasa
19. About Ghungroo
20. Pushpanjali Sloka
21. Most important Hand gestures