7 Styles of Bharatanatyam

25th Apr, 2022

Bharatanatyam classical dance can beautifully reveal your grace and elegance. This art form is a unique mixture of song, emotions, expressions and rhythm. It involves every traditional aspect of classical dance, such as hand postures, Padma or narrative dance and facial expressions. If you wish to master this particular skill, you can join online Bharatanatyam classes and seek professional guidance from expert dancers. To learn more, check out this blog from tip to toe!

Online Bharatanatyam Classes: A Little About Bharatanatyam Dance

Did you ever wonder what the meaning of 'Bharatanatyam' is? 'Bha' stands for Bhava, which means emotion, Ra stands for Raaga, which means music, Ta refers to Taal and Natyam typically means dance.

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What Are the Seven-Element Order of Bharatanatyam Classical Dance?

The element order is divided into the following parts:

Alarippu
Jatiswaram
Shabdam
Varnam
Padam
Thillana

Continue reading to learn about them individually.

1. Online Bharatanatyam Classes: Alarippu

The term Alarippu can be segregated into two parts- 'Alar', which refers to a flower and 'Ippu' which means bringing or lowering down.
In a Bharatanatyam recital, Alarippu is the first item. This dance performance takes place in the initial stage of the recital.
The dancers dedicate their bodies to God in this act.
Alarippu is a warm-up dance that is performed before the whole act.
It is a form of pure Nrittya that includes various shoulder, neck, and arms movements. It adds excellent charm to their body language. The online classical dance classes can expose you to practical experiences.

2. Jatiswaram

In Jatiswaram, the performer combines various patterns in a beautiful musical composition.
It tends to incorporate an element of melody to the Alarippu.
It is divided into three sections- Pallavi, Anupallavi, and Charanams.

3. Shabdam

Shabdam tends to add words to the overall dance performance. Shabda is another term that is used to denote words.
It is a brief composition that includes meaning and phrases. The dancers, musical team and vocalists are a part of this beautiful composition.
In Shabdam, the movements of the dancer are leisurely. Some of the Shabdam in Bharatanatyam are stated below:
- Thandai Muzhanga
- Adum Mayil
- Aayar Seriyar
- Aazhi Suzhnthida
- Vayu Maidane
- Devi Thaye
- Ramar
- Venu Gananai
- Shivan
- Myilai Pujitha
- Krishna Manjari
- Sarasijakshulu

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4. Varnam

Varnam is the extended and challenging part of Bharatanatyam.
It includes complicated movements along with several variations in expressions.
Varnam consists of authentic and unique compositions.
The dancers reveal all their moves with their mesmerizing footwork and codified gestures.
The frame and hands of the dancers portray a story related to war or affection between the devil and God.

5. Padam

Padam consists of expression, drama and simplicity in the performance.
It is a slow-moving dance when compared to the other types.
Padam is an act of story-telling using various movements and dance steps.
Padam is a combination of sentiment and love.

6. Thillana

Thillana is the climax part of the Bharatanatyam dance.
This style requires excellent timing, rhythm, and synchronization skills to create a charming and unique performance.
Thillana is a beautiful mixture of elegant body movements and elements of acting. To nourish all these skills, enroll yourself in online classical dance classes immediately!

What Are the Mudras in Bharatanatyam?

Check out the list of mudras stated below in the article:

The first mudra is termed Pataka. You need to keep all your fingers straight except your thumb. Pataka mudra depicts forests, clouds, denial etc.
The next one is Tripitaka, where you need to bend only your ring finger. It depicts arrows, trees, thunder and a crown.
Ardhapataka shows leaves, 'two', slab or board etc.
Kartari Mukha is used to depict a scissor. It also reflects anger, opposition, separation and looting.
The next one is Mayurakhyo. This mudra symbolizes birds, creepers, and the feather crown of Krishna.
Ardha Chandra mudra depicts throat and spear etc.
Araala typically signifies harsh wind, represents drinking etc.
Shukatunda generally refers to a parrot's head. It also resembles shooting.
Mushti illustrates steadfastness, grasping and combative position.
Shikara is used to portray pillars and bows.
Kapittha symbolizes a flower, milking cows or holding cymbals.
Kataka mukha can be done in three ways. One can use this mudra to show wearing or holding a necklace, picking up flowers or seeing and talking.
Suchi is a common mudra that demonstrates one hundred, Supreme soul, a city or the sun.

What Are the Types of Bharatanatyam Dance?

Bharatanatyam classical dance can be classified into three types:

Vazhuvoor's style includes expressions and vibrant dressing along with several facial expressions.
Melattur dance form uses smooth foot works and ankle bells.
Pandanallur dance form focuses on Adavus's linear body postures.

The Bottom Line

This is a general guide that will help you gain some theoretical knowledge. But for practical exposure, joining online Bharatanatyam classes is the best decision. For more information, kindly log on to https://kafqa.com/.

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