Bharatanatyam

Origins & History

The Devadasi Heritage and Renaissance

Bharatanatyam is widely regarded as the oldest classical dance tradition in Bharat, with its roots tracing back over 2,000 years to the Natya Shastra. Historically known as Sadir or Dasi Attam, it was the sacred preserve of the Devadasis—women dedicated to temple service. For centuries, these dancers performed in the magnificent temple complexes of the Chola and Pallava dynasties. During the British Raj, the art form faced a period of decline, but it was heroically revived in the 20th century by visionaries like Rukmini Devi Arundale and E. Krishna Iyer, who transitioned the dance from the temple sanctum to the modern proscenium stage while maintaining its Vedic sanctity.

Performance Structure

Margam: The Traditional Path

A traditional Bharatanatyam performance follows a strictly defined sequence called the Margam (meaning "path"). It begins with Alarippu, a rhythmic invocation to the gods and the audience, followed by Jatiswaram, which showcases pure technical skill. The centerpiece is the Varnam, the most complex and demanding segment, where the dancer alternates between intricate footwork and Abhinaya (expression). The performance usually concludes with a Thillana, a joyous burst of rhythmic movement, and a Mangalam, a final prayer for peace.

Aesthetics & Attire

Silks, Bells, and Temple Gold

The visual identity of Bharatanatyam is inseparable from its attire. Dancers wear a specially stitched saree made of Kanchipuram silk, featuring a unique "fan" pleat that opens beautifully when the dancer assumes the Araimandi (half-squat) position. The jewelry, known as Temple Jewelry, consists of the Thalaisaman (headpieces representing the sun and moon), Jhumkas (earrings), and an ornate waist belt. A crucial element is the Ghungroo—the heavy bronze bells tied around the ankles that transform the dancer’s feet into a percussive instrument.

Visitor Guide

Witnessing the Grace