Dance is one of the happiest activity one can do. It is a form of therapy for many. Dance keeps the body, mind and soul flourished. There are many dance forms around the world. India has eight classical dance forms, of which Bharatanatyam is famous in Southern part of India.
Around 2000 years back, this beautiful dance called Bharatanatyam originated in Tamil Nadu. It is considered as one the toughest classical dance. While there is very little proof of its lineage, there are scripts claiming its ancient origin. Bharatanatyam is an expressive dance form, where in the dancer depicts various stories and acts through dance and expressions. This dance is grace personified many folds.
Bharatanatyam is not just dance but a spiritual and religious journey. One who wished to learn this dance form has to learn the rituals associated with Bharatanatyam, like, praying to God, lighting of the incense sticks, touching the first step of any stage before stepping on it, etc. These rituals are a way of showing respect to Lord Nataraj.
Bharatanatyam gets its name from the Sanskrit words ‘Natyam’ meaning dance and Bharata which is again a combination of Bha (Bhava meaning emotions), Ra (Raga meaning melody) and Ta (Tala meaning rhythm). Such a beautiful name, which says this is a dance which has emotions, melody and rhythm.
This graceful dance form has two elements Nritya which is a combination of expressions along with footwork and Nritta which is dance with arduous footwork. It is a sight to behold while watching a Bharatanatyam performance in the traditional attire which is a tailor-made sari with pleats stitched that falls in the front from the waist and jewelry that adorns the head, nose, ear, neck, hand, waist, and leg. The make-up worn especially highlights the eye of the dancer. Finger and toes and often decorated with henna or alta.
Bharatanatyam is a complicated and graceful dance form which requires rigorous practice and dedication. I, for one have not been able to learn this dance, just because I lacked dedication. Bharatanatyam is simply art in the form of dance.