<<<<-2a h2>Styles Of BharatanatyamBharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam is a classical Indian dance form that originated in TamilTamil Nadu, India. It is one of the oldest surviving dance forms in the world, and is considered to be one of the most sophisticated and expressive forms of dance. Bharatanatyam is a combination of dance, music, and drama, and is performed to the accompaniment of a live orchestra. The dance is based on a system of codified gestures and movements, known as mudras, which are used to express a variety of emotions and ideas. Bharatanatyam is also known for its intricate footwork and complex choreography.
There are three main styles of Bharatanatyam: Tanjore, Kanchipuram, and Mysore. Each style has its own unique characteristics, but all three styles share a common foundation in the ancient dance treatise, the Natya Shastra.
The Tanjore style of Bharatanatyam is the oldest and most traditional style. It is characterized by its slow, graceful movements and its emphasis on intricate footwork. The Kanchipuram style is more lively and energetic, with a focus on complex choreography and expressive facial expressions. The Mysore style is a fusion of the Tanjore and Kanchipuram styles, and is characterized by its elegant movements and its emphasis on emotional expression.
Bharatanatyam is a beautiful and expressive art form that has been passed down through generations of Indian dancers. It is a living tradition that continues to evolve and adapt to the changing world.
- Major Styles of Bharatanatyam
- Pandanallur style
- Vazhavoor style
- Tanjore style (or Thanjavur style)
- Melattur style
- Kalakshetra style
- Distinguishing Characteristics of Each Style
- Footwork (Adavu)
- Body language (Nritta)
- Expressive hand gestures (Mudras)
- Costumes and ornamentation
- Repertoire and compositions
Pandanallur’s Grace:
Elegance reigns supreme in the Pandanallur style. Footwork (adavu) emphasizes clean linear patterns, while body language (nritta) features expansive gestures and powerful leaps. This style is known for its repertoire of elaborate dance pieces called “Pada Varnams,” typically numbering nine or ten.
Vazhavoor’s Subtlety:
In contrast to Pandanallur’s grandeur, the Vazhavoor style is known for its nuanced expressions and emotional depth. This style emphasizes a wider range of sitting postures and intricate footwork patterns. The nritta showcases a more controlled and introspective expression.
Tanjore’s Majesty:
The Tanjore style embodies the grandeur of the Chola dynasty, famed for its Temple Architecture and rich cultural heritage. Broad sweeping movements, a focus on clean lines and postures, and an aura of austerity and vitality characterize this style.
Melattur’s Vibrancy:
The Melattur style stands out for its emphasis on pure dance (nritta). It draws inspiration from ancient martial arts and temple rituals. Footwork is complex and vigorous, while nritta showcases sharp and powerful movements. The Melattur style is also known for its focus on improvisation and storytelling elements.
Beyond Movement:
Distinguishing characteristics extend beyond the realm of movement. Each style has its own preferences for costumes and ornamentation. The Pandanallur style might favor vibrant silks, while the Vazhavoor style might lean towards subtler color palettes. Similarly, the repertoire and compositions chosen by dancers may vary depending on the style.
A United Thread:
Despite their differences, these Bharatanatyam styles share a common core. They all emphasize storytelling through intricate hand gestures (mudras), expressive facial expressions, and rhythmic footwork. All celebrate the beauty and complexity of human emotions and spirituality.
A Living Legacy:
The styles of Bharatanatyam aren’t stagnant. They continue to evolve as dancers and gurus interpret and reinterpret the tradition. New choreographies and innovative interpretations keep this art form vibrant and relevant for contemporary audiences.
Styles of Bharatanatyam
There are three main styles of Bharatanatyam: Tanjore, Kanchipuram, and Mysore. Each style has its own unique characteristics, but all three styles share a common foundation in the ancient dance treatise, the Natya Shastra.
The Tanjore style of Bharatanatyam is the oldest and most traditional style. It is characterized by its slow, graceful movements and its emphasis on intricate footwork. The Kanchipuram style is more lively and energetic, with a focus on complex choreography and expressive facial expressions. The Mysore style is a fusion of the Tanjore and Kanchipuram styles, and is characterized by its elegant movements and its emphasis on emotional expression.
History of Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam is a very ancient dance form, and its origins are lost in the mists of time. However, it is believed to have originated in the temples of South India, where it was performed as a religious ritual. Over time, Bharatanatyam evolved from a religious dance into a secular art form, and it became popular among both the royal courts and the common people.
In the 19th century, Bharatanatyam began to decline in popularity, as it was seen as a relic of the past. However, in the early 20th century, there was a revival of interest in Bharatanatyam, and it was once again performed in public. Today, Bharatanatyam is one of the most popular dance forms in India, and it is also performed all over the world.
Elements of Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam is a complex art form that combines dance, music, and drama. The dance is based on a system of codified gestures and movements, known as mudras, which are used to express a variety of emotions and ideas. Bharatanatyam is also known for its intricate footwork and complex choreography.
The music that accompanies Bharatanatyam is typically played on a variety of instruments, including the veena, the mridangam, and the flute. The music is used to set the mood and rhythm of the dance, and it also provides a framework for the dancer to improvise.
The drama in Bharatanatyam is conveyed through the dancer’s facial expressions, gestures, and movements. The dancer may portray a variety of characters, from gods and goddesses to ordinary people. The drama is often based on stories from Hindu mythology or from Indian Literature.
Benefits of Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam is a very physically demanding dance form, and it can provide a number of benefits for the dancer. These benefits include:
- Improved flexibility
- Increased strength
- Better balance
- Increased stamina
- Improved coordination
- Reduced stress
- Increased self-confidence
- Improved body image
- Increased creativity
- Improved memory
- Improved concentration
- Improved focus
FAQS
Is Bharatanatyam just one style of dance?
No, Bharatanatyam has several distinct styles, each with its own characteristics.
What are some of the main styles of Bharatanatyam?
Four prominent styles include Pandanallur, Vazhavoor, Tanjore (or Thanjavur), and Melattur.
How can you tell the styles apart?
Differences lie in footwork patterns, body language, and emotional expression during the dance. Styles also have preferences for costumes and the dance pieces performed.
Does one style emphasize a specific aspect of Bharatanatyam?
Yes, for instance, the Pandanallur style is known for its grace and grandeur, while Melattur focuses on dynamic footwork and storytelling.
Despite these differences, is there a unifying element in Bharatanatyam?
Absolutely! All styles share a focus on storytelling through hand gestures, expressions, and rhythmic footwork, celebrating emotions and spirituality.
MCQS
This Bharatanatyam style emphasizes expansive gestures, powerful jumps, and a repertoire of elaborate dance pieces:
- a) Vazhavoor
- b) Pandanallur
- CC) Tanjore
- d) Melattur
Known for its subtle expressions and intricate footwork, this style prioritizes a more controlled and introspective nritta (body language):
- a) Pandanallur
- b) Vazhavoor
- c) Tanjore
- d) Melattur
Broad sweeping movements, clean lines, and an aura of grandeur characterize this style, reminiscent of the Chola dynasty’s architectural legacy:
- a) Vazhavoor
- b) Pandanallur
- c) Tanjore
- d) Melattur
This style draws inspiration from martial arts and emphasizes vigorous footwork, sharp movements, and improvisation:
- a) Pandanallur
- b) Vazhavoor
- c) Tanjore
- d) Melattur
While each Bharatanatyam style has its unique characteristics, they all share a focus on:
- a) Storytelling through mudras (hand gestures) and expressions
- b) Acrobatic feats and athleticism
- c) Comedic interpretations and lighthearted themes
- d) Solely instrumental music without vocal elements
Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form, is known for its expressive storytelling and intricate movements. What is the term for the hand gestures used in Bharatanatyam to convey emotions and ideas?
- a) Mudras (Correct)
- b) Asanas (YogaYoga-2YogaYoga postures)
- c) Sutras (Aphorisms)
- d) Shalokas (Verses)
Bharatanatyam performances are traditionally solo presentations, but may also involve a group of dancers. What is the typical attire for a Bharatanatyam dancer?
- a) A flowing ghagra (skirt) and choli (blouse)
- b) A dhoti (loincloth) and kurta (tunic) (Not typical for Bharatanatyam)
- c) A brightly colored sari with elaborate jewelry (Correct)
- d) Simple, everyday clothing
Bharatanatyam choreography follows a specific structure. What is the introductory section of a Bharatanatyam performance called?
- a) Jathiswaram (Energetic rhythmic dance)
- b) Alarippu (Correct) – Sets the tempo and introduces the raga
- c) Padam (Expressive solo piece)
- d) Tillana (Energetic concluding dance)
Bharatanatyam draws inspiration from various sources for its storytelling. What is a common theme explored in Bharatanatyam performances?
- a) Acts of war and heroism
- b) Stories from Hindu mythology (Correct)
- c) Social commentary on current events
- d) Everyday life experiences
Bharatanatyam is a continuously evolving art form. However, what is a core element that remains constant across different presentations?
- a) The use of specific props and theatrical elements
- b) The music genre (Always Carnatic Music, but focus is on the dance itself)
- c) The adherence to a strict narrative (There can be variations)
- d) The expressive use of the body and mudras (Correct)