CULTURE
WHERE DOES BHARATANATYAM COME FROM?
Bharatanatyam originates from the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the seven forms of Indian classical dance, and has lineage tracing back at least 2,000 years. When the form began, it was a temple dance performed in praise of gods and goddesses as a form of worship. The dancers were called devadasis. As time passed and what is now south India was faced with the Mughal invasion, devadasis' status was diminished. Ultimately, between Mughal rule and British colonization, the form was outlawed. In the mid 20th century, though, it was revived and the form continues to be practiced to this day.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT ELEMENTS OF BHARATANATYAM?
Bharatanatyam is consists of two main components: nritta and abhinaya. Nritta, or pure dance, is composed of adavus, or basic steps, which are learned over the dancer's training. Abhinaya is expression and emoting which dancers use to communicate the complex stories portrayed in their pieces.
HOW DOES BHARATANATYAM EXIST IN TODAY'S WORLD?
While Bharatanatyam is an ancient art form, it has become increasingly present. While Chennai remains its center in India, there are many teachers, or Gurus, in the US. There has also been a rise in fusion styles, which combine western elements such as hip-hop or contemporary dance with Bharatanatyam. Further, the internet and social media has made the form increasingly accessible and has highlighted the true breadth and scope of the Bharatanatyam community around the globe.