Master the Basics of Bharatanatyam

Team Saanwee
Sep 11
4 min read

Bharatanatyam, a classical dance of India, has captivated audiences for centuries with its elegant footwork, graceful postures, and expressive storytelling. Originating from the temples of Tamil Nadu, Bharatanatyam is one of the most ancient and revered dance forms in Indian classical dance. If you’ve ever been curious about the basics of Bharatanatyam or wondered where to begin your learning journey, you’re in the right place. This blog will help you master the fundamentals of Bharatanatyam and discover its beauty step by step.

What is Bharatanatyam?

Bharatanatyam is a traditional Indian classical dance form that has been practiced for over 2,000 years. It is often considered one of the oldest and most respected of all the Indian classical dance styles. Bharatanatyam is rooted in the temples of Tamil Nadu, where it was originally performed by devadasis as an offering to the deities. Over time, it has evolved into a highly sophisticated art form that blends intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures (mudras), and facial expressions to tell a story.

The dance is a blend of Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (theatrical performance), making it a unique combination of rhythm, emotion, and drama. This makes Bharatanatyam one of the most compelling Indian classical dance forms for both the performer and the audience.

The Fundamental Elements of Bharatanatyam

To truly understand Bharatanatyam, it's crucial to dive into its three primary elements:

Nritta (Pure Dance) – This form of dance focuses on intricate footwork and rhythmic patterns, emphasizing speed, precision, and coordination. It’s the perfect way for a dancer to showcase their technical skill.
Nritya (Expressive Dance) – Through Nritya, a dancer expresses emotions and tells stories through facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movements. This is where the soul of Bharatanatyam comes to life.
Natya (Theatrical Dance) – Natya is the dramatic component, often portraying characters or depicting mythological stories. Through storytelling and body language, dancers evoke powerful emotions.

Mastering all three elements is essential in becoming a proficient Bharatanatyam dancer. The delicate balance of rhythmic patterns and emotional depth is what makes Bharatanatyam one of the most compelling and revered dance forms in India.

Key Postures and Mudras in Bharatanatyam

In Bharatanatyam, each movement holds a deep symbolic meaning. The mudras (hand gestures) are used to convey specific ideas, emotions, and objects. Some mudras, like Pataka (flag), Tripataka (crown), and Ardha Chandra (half moon), tell stories through their intricate formations.

Similarly, key poses such as Aramandi (the basic sitting posture) are fundamental to mastering Bharatanatyam. The perfect execution of each pose and gesture helps convey the meaning and emotion of the dance, which is why learning the correct postures and mudras is vital in your Bharatanatyam journey.

Understanding the Basic Adavus

Adavus are the basic building blocks of Bharatanatyam. These footwork patterns are composed of simple movements like Natta Adavu and Tatta Adavu, which combine rhythm and posture. Practicing these steps regularly strengthens a dancer’s foundation, and from here, more complex sequences are built.

Learning and mastering Adavus is essential for anyone starting their Bharatanatyam journey. They provide the dancer with the necessary rhythm and precision that will help them as they advance in their dance practice.

Music and Rhythm in Bharatanatyam

The music in Bharatanatyam is as integral to the dance as the choreography itself. Carnatic music is the predominant genre of music used in Bharatanatyam performances. The intricate rhythmic patterns (called Talas) are composed in perfect synchrony with the footwork, creating a harmonious flow between dance and music.

Understanding the music and rhythm of Bharatanatyam is fundamental to a dancer’s ability to perform with precision. Without a strong understanding of Tala and Raga, a dancer cannot truly master the dance form.

Costumes and Makeup in Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam dancers wear traditional costumes that help enhance their expressions. The female dancer’s costume usually consists of a sari worn in a unique style, adorned with beads, bells, and gold jewelry. The ghungroos (ankle bells) create a mesmerizing sound that adds to the rhythm of the dance.

Makeup and jewelry play an important role in accentuating the dancer’s expressions. Bold eye makeup, a decorative bindi, and intricate jewelry make the performer stand out and emphasize every movement.

Finding the Right Teacher for Bharatanatyam

As with any classical art form, learning Bharatanatyam requires guidance from an experienced teacher. A guru (teacher) helps a student refine their technique, deepen their understanding of Nritya and Natya, and learn the traditions of this beautiful art form. When choosing a teacher, look for someone who has a deep understanding of the tradition and can guide you in a structured manner.

Benefits of Learning Bharatanatyam

Apart from the artistic and cultural knowledge, learning Bharatanatyam has numerous benefits. Physically, it improves flexibility, posture, and strength. Emotionally, it helps to develop discipline, focus, and emotional intelligence. As you explore the depths of this classical dance, you not only learn the art but also develop a deeper connection to Indian heritage.

Conclusion

Mastering the basics of Bharatanatyam takes time, patience, and dedication, but the rewards are immense. By immersing yourself in this ancient Indian classical dance, you not only discover a new world of rhythm and movement but also unlock the secrets of India's cultural traditions. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to deepen your practice, remember that every step brings you closer to mastering the dance that has enchanted generations. Join Bharatnatyam Class at Saanwee in South Riding