Nattadavu Steps 1, 2 | Bharatanatyam Adavus | Natyakriya Episode 08

We started off with the Namaskaram and learned the first set of steps called "Thattadavu". If you are a beginner, I urge you to start from the beginning to get an idea of the basic dance prayer, positions etc.

Today, we're going to be moving on to the second set of steps or Adavu known as "Nattadavu" (नाट्टडवु) {read: Naa-ttuh-duh-voo}. "Naattudhal" means "to  firmly root". In these steps, the HEEL is used as a PIVOT for stretching and hitting of the legs. Hand movements are incorporated for the first time. There are 8 variations (depending upon the style of dance) in this adavu.

The sollukattu (सोल्लुकट्टु) or Rhythmic syllables of Nattadavu is - Thaiyyum That Tha Thaiyyum Thaam

Here is the video tutorial on the first & second steps of Nattadavu.

Always start and end every dance practice with the Namaskaram.

NATTADAVU STEP 1

      I. Leg Movements

1. Sit in the Aramandi or Aramandalam position.
2. Lift your RIGHT LEG - toes pointed while imagining that you heel is touching your behind. Place the right heel firmly to the right side of your body. (still maintaining Aramandi) {Count 1}
3. Lift the heel off the ground imagining it touching your behind and hit the floor next to your left leg - i.e coming back to original position {Count 2}

This is the right side. Do the exact same thing with your left leg. Repeat in 3 speeds.

    II. Hand Movements

1. For the starting Aramandi position, stretch your hands out to the sides making sure they are in level with your shoulders and slightly bent at the elbow. HAND  GESTURE - Tripataka
2. As you place your RIGHT HEEL out for COUNT 1, slightly twist your right hand in order to turn your right palm UPWARDS in the same Tripataka gesture.
3. As you bring back you HEEL to hit to the original position for COUNT 2, turn back the hand in order to make your RIGHT PALM face down again.

This is the right side. Do the exact same thing with your left hands. Do the hand and leg movements together in 3 speeds.

NATTADAVU STEP 2

This step is exactly like the first step. But instead of doing each side ONCE, you're going to do each side twice. You have to maintain Aramandi throughout..

** Note: TRI-PATAKA Hand Gesture: Keep your palms straight, bending and joining your thumbs with the index finger. Bend the RING FINGER half way down.

source

That's it! If you have any queries, shoot a comment on my YouTube video or leave a comment down below. :-)