Bharatanatyam: Classical Dance of Tamil Nadu
Bharatanatyam is one of India's oldest and most revered classical dance forms, originating in the temples of Tamil Nadu. Characterized by intricate footwork, expressive gestures, and spiritual storytelling, this sacred art form represents the profound cultural heritage of South India and continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Photo by Prithvi Raj on Unsplash
Origin & History
Bharatanatyam traces its origins to the ancient temples of Tamil Nadu, with roots extending back over 2,000 years. The dance form evolved from the ritual traditions described in the Natya Shastra, a Sanskrit treatise on performing arts attributed to the sage Bharata Muni, composed between 200 BCE and 200 CE. The name 'Bharatanatyam' itself is believed to derive from a combination of 'bha' (bhava/expression), 'ra' (raga/melody), 'ta' (tala/rhythm), and 'natyam' (dance), though it also honors its connection to Bharata Muni's teachings.
Historically, Bharatanatyam was performed by devadasis, women dedicated to temple service who expressed devotion through dance as a form of worship. These hereditary practitioners maintained the art form for centuries within the sacred precincts of temples like the Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur and the Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram. The Thanjavur Quartet—Chinnaiah, Ponniah, Sivanandam, and Vadivelu—were instrumental 19th-century figures who codified and systematized the repertoire that defines Bharatanatyam today.
During British colonial rule, the devadasi tradition faced social stigmatization, and the dance form experienced a period of decline. The early 20th century witnessed a remarkable revival movement led by visionaries including E. Krishna Iyer, who advocated for the art's legitimacy, and Rukmini Devi Arundale, who founded Kalakshetra in Chennai in 1936. Arundale's efforts transformed Bharatanatyam into a respected concert art accessible to all communities while preserving its spiritual essence.
This renaissance established Bharatanatyam as a symbol of Indian cultural identity and artistic excellence. The dance form was embraced by the newly independent nation as part of its cultural heritage, leading to its institutionalization in universities and academies across India and eventually around the world.
How It Is Practiced
Contemporary Bharatanatyam follows a structured format known as the 'margam,' a traditional repertoire performed during solo recitals called 'arangetram' (debut performance) or concert presentations. A typical performance begins with 'Alarippu,' an invocatory piece, followed by 'Jatiswaram' and 'Shabdam,' progressing to the central 'Varnam'—a complex composition showcasing technical mastery and emotional depth. The recital concludes with expressive pieces like 'Padams' and 'Javalis,' ending with a 'Thillana' and 'Mangalam' (auspicious closing).
Training in Bharatanatyam traditionally begins in childhood and spans many years under the guidance of a guru in the guru-shishya parampara (teacher-student tradition). Students learn the fundamental postures including the distinctive 'aramandi' (half-sitting position), intricate 'adavus' (basic steps), 'mudras' (hand gestures), and 'abhinaya' (expressive storytelling). Major institutions like Kalakshetra in Chennai, Nrityagram near Bangalore, and numerous dance schools worldwide continue this pedagogical tradition. Annual festivals such as the Chennai December Music and Dance Season feature performances by renowned artists and emerging talents.
Regional variations exist within the Bharatanatyam tradition, with distinct styles associated with different lineages or 'banis.' The Thanjavur, Pandanallur, Vazhuvoor, and Kalakshetra styles each have characteristic approaches to movement, expression, and repertoire. Today, dancers perform in temple festivals, concert halls, cultural programs, and international stages, while also exploring contemporary themes and collaborative works that expand the art form's boundaries while respecting its foundations.
Cultural Significance
Bharatanatyam holds profound spiritual significance as a form of 'Natya Yoga'—a path to divine connection through artistic expression. The dance embodies the concept of offering one's art to the divine, with movements representing stories from Hindu mythology, devotional poetry, and philosophical concepts. The iconic image of Lord Nataraja, the cosmic dancer, serves as the presiding deity of this art form, symbolizing the eternal dance of creation, preservation, and transformation.
Beyond its spiritual dimensions, Bharatanatyam serves as a powerful vehicle for cultural preservation and transmission. The dance form encapsulates Tamil literary traditions, Carnatic music, and sculptural aesthetics seen in temple architecture. It has become an ambassador of Indian culture globally, with practitioners in over 50 countries contributing to intercultural dialogue and artistic exchange. The dance also empowers performers, particularly women, providing a platform for artistic expression and professional achievement.
Economically and socially, Bharatanatyam supports a vibrant ecosystem of teachers, musicians, costume designers, jewelry makers, and event organizers. The art form has been recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, India's national academy for performing arts, and continues to receive support through cultural institutions and government initiatives. Its influence extends to cinema, contemporary dance, and global performing arts, demonstrating the enduring relevance of this ancient tradition in modern contexts.