BHARATA NATYAM
India, one of the oldest and very ancient civilizations in the world is known for
its spiritual and artistic heritage. They are both intimately connected. They are
oral traditions passed on in a very unique process of direct transmission from master
to disciple known as the Guru Shishya Parampara. Our artistic traditions are ancient,
rich and diverse. They have been handed down to us through an unbroken sweep of
more than 5000 years. They have stood the test of time and have survived, adapting
and assimilating within them new ideas and thought processes while continuing to
remain rooted in the Indian world view, philosophy and values.
Indian Dance in particular has an expansive variety that includes classical, folk
and tribal styles. Infact, India is the only country in the world that has 7 established
classical dance traditions. They are: Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi Bharata Natyam,
Mohini Attam & Kathakali.
Bharatanatyam finds its origins in the temple rituals of Southern India now recognised
as Tamil Nadu. Between the 9th - 17th century, it was known as Sadir Natyam and
performed by the devadasis (young girls dedicated to the temple deity) and was patronised
by many royal courts. In the mid-19th century this dance tradition was revitalised
, redefined and restructured through the contribution of four talented brothers
known as the Tanjore Quartette. It was only as late as 1930 that this tradition
was renamed Bharat Natyam - a style which is today taught and performed across the
globe and which has earned world wide popularity.
Bharatanatyam is characterised by scintillating and complex rhythmic patterns interpreted
through its diverse footwork; sharp, clear, angular,linear movements of the body
and subtle yet intense expression. Enriched by the depth , knowledge and genius
of great masters hailing from different regions of Tamil nadu, it evolved into three
main schools (banis /gharanas) – Pandanallur, Tanjavore & Vazhuvoor Bani.