ABOUT BHARATANATYAM

INTRODUCTION

Bharatanatyam is one of the major forms of the Indian classical dance. Originally known as Sadhir Attam or Thevarattam, it originated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the eight dance forms recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi. 

Bharatanatyam uses the Carnatic style of music. The vocalist is called the nattuvanar, who is basically the master of the performance. He/she could be the guru of the dancer or simply a musician.

Bharatanatyam can be performed solo as well as in a group. The dancer wears a colourful sari, adorned with traditional jewelry.

 

REPERTOIRE

The traditional Bharatanatyam performance follows a seven-part order of presentation which the artist performs on his/her arangetram. This set is called margam.

1) Alarippu

2) Jathiswaram

3) Shabdam

4) Varnam

5) Padam

6) Thillana

7) Shlokam/ Mangalam