Introduction

Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dance traditions of India, with roots reaching back over 2,000 years. This graceful art form is a beautiful blend of spirituality, tradition, and art, originating from the temples of Tamil Nadu.

Historical Journey

The dance was initially performed by Devadasis, women dedicated to serving the deities in temples. Bharatanatyam later moved to the courts of kings and eventually found a respectable standing on the stage. Intricately connected to the cultural and spiritual ethos of South India, it was revived in the 20th century by dedicated artists who fought for its place in Indian heritage.

Components of Bharatanatyam

This dance form comprises three main elements: Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natyam (dramatic art). Each of these components serves to evoke emotions and tell deep-rooted stories of Indian mythology and folklore.