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BHARATANATYAM: A STEP APART

INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE

There are seven classical dance forms of India--Kathak, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam, and Kathakali. Classical Indian dance is comprised of three principal elements: nritta (rhythmic elements) , nritya (combination of rhythm with expression) , and natya (dramatic element). The weaving of these three aspects is used to tell a story or depict a scene. Thematically, all of these dance forms take much of the content of their compositions from Hindu mythology and folk legends.

BHARATANATYAM

Originating in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, Bharatanatyam is believed to be the oldest of the classical dances, with sacred origins dating back to over 2000 years ago. According to the sage Bharata, after whom the dance is named, Lord Brahma--creator of the universe--created the first form of dance in India. He extracted key elements from each of the four Vedas (sacred Hindu scriptures): music, gestures to express words, lyrical matter, and emotion. Brahma blended these aspects and presented a dance form called Bharatanatyam.

The dance form was originally performed by devadasis, young women who upheld the arts in the community and were dedicated to dancing. The dance was performed in the courts for kings, and occassionally in the temples during Hindu festivals. Sculptures dating back to the 5th century, A.D. depict poses that are seen in many of the classical Indian dance forms.

Much of the content of the stories told in Bharatanatyam today is divine or spiritual in nature, with a common theme being the longing of the individual to attain salvation and become one with God. Aspects of human love and emotions are also expressed in the dances.

Bharatanatyam is a vibrant dance form that blends complex rhythmic footwork with intricate hand gestures and subtle movements of the eyes, eyebrows, mouth, head, and neck. Initially, the footwork alone is taught. Only after this is perfected, are the hand and arm movements added. Finally, the dancer learns the art of facial expression to communicate emotions and convey a mood. Typically, several years of training are required for the dancer to perfect the combination of these elements that characterize Bharatanatyam.

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