Elements of Bharanatyam - Nritta, Nritya & Natya (3N's)

 

There are way too many things to know when it comes to any dance. Bharatanatyam tops the list, in my opinion! Unlike some dance forms that are learned for 'fun', Bharatanatyam requires deeper understanding, maturity and skill to learn and perform. In many classes, there is no structured program to take a student through the theoretical aspects of this Dance along with the practical steps. Although not knowing the theory doesn't hamper a person's dance skill, it is always good to have an all round growth. :-)

History & Evolution of Bharatanatyam

What we know as Bharata Natyam today springs from Sadir Natyam, also known by names like Daasi Attam, Chinna Mélam, or simply, Sadir.

source : Notice that the procession is being let by a dancer?

Introduction to Bharatanatyam

Bharata Natyam (often spelled as Bharatanatyam) (read: Bhuh-ruh-tha-naat-yum) is one of India's oldest and most dynamic classical dance forms with a history of more than two thousand years.

            Bha for Bhaavam (expression)

Ra for Raagam  (music)

 Ta for Thaalam (rhythm)

The 3 syllables together form the word 'Bharata'.

Natyam is a Sanskrit word that means 'Dance'. Thus, Bharata Natyam is the dance form that unites expression, music & rhytm. (Bhaavam, Raagam & Thaalam) The tinkle of Ghunghroo, synchronizing with the fast movements of the dancer's feet combining with the hand gestures (mudra) and expressions (abhinaya) to form a theme is performed as a yagna (act of worship) to the Lord.

The dance form is a Saadhna - a spiritual means for the integration of thought, emotion and action - all channelized towards one path - the Path towards the Supreme Lord! Bharatanatyam is considered to be a fire-dance — the mystic manifestation of the metaphysical element of fire in the human body

Coming up next.... History of Bharatanatyam

List of Shlokam (prayers)

Shloka or a prayer song are usually in Sankrit and in praise of some Lord. Here are some popular Shlokas -

1. Angikam Bhuvanam (DhyAna Shlokam) - Dance Prayer #1#

Bharatanatyam Hasta Mudra

Hasta Mudra ~ also known as hand gesture is a significant aspect of an Indian Classical Dance.

Here's what you need to know -

1. Introduction

Bharatanatyam Basic Theory

A list of basic theoretical posts for you to know -

1. Introduction to Bharatanatyam
2. History & Evolution of Bharatanatyam
3. 3Ns of Bharatanatyam - Nritta, Nritya & Natya

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