Bharatnatyam is one of the oldest dance forms from the state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the eight classical dance forms in India.
Originated in the Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu, it is also known as the Sadir or Daasiyatam. It was performed by the Devadasis, women who have devoted their lives to god in temples.
The origins of the dance can be traced to Bharata Muni’s Natya Shastra. Nandikesvara’s Abhinaya Darpana gives a detailed insight into the dance movements and expressions.
Different stages of Bharatnatyam are Alarippu, Jatiswaram, Shabdam, Varnam, Padam, Jawali, Thillana etc.The name Bharatnatyam, itself refers to a combination of Bhava, Raga, and Thala.
There are three important elements in Bharatnatyam including Nritta (pure form of dance with rhythmic movements), Nritya(representation of emotions through gestures and facial expressions), and Natya(combination of rhythmic movements and expression)
The most prominent Bharatnatyam dancers of India are Rukmini Devi Arundale, Mrinalini Sarabai, Dr. Padma Subramanyam, Alarmel Valli,and Anita Ratnam.
Bharatnatyam is accompanied by Carnatic Music, mridangam, veena, flute, etc.
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