Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam is one of the most popular classical dance forms in India. Although founded in Tamil Nadu, Bharatanatyam in Karnataka enjoys great popularity as well. The particular schools of Karnataka's Bharatanatyam dance is being taken to great heights by practicing artists who teach and perform around Bangalore and various other cities of the state.

Bharatanatyam traces its origin to the Fifth Veda or Natya Shastra by the Hindu sage Bharatmuni. The dance form is derived from the name of the sage. However, legend has it that the name of the dance embodies the triple essence of emotion (bhav), music and song (raga) and rhythm (tala) in its name. Bharatanatyam was originally practiced by the temple dancers or Devadasis, but found its form largely in the hands of the famous Tanjore Quitnet: Chinniah, Sivanandan, Ponniah an Vadivelu. Bharatanatyam employs nritta (rhythmic dance), abhinaya (mime acting) and nritya (a combination of the two) in its performance and each part employs a great degree of intricate sub-parts. Together, they are believed to uplift the performer and the audience to a divine state of being.

Bharatanatyam in Karnataka was practiced from as early as the 4th century AD. The royal courts of Karnataka, particularly the Chalykyas patronized the dance form extensively. The Vijayanagar empire encouraged the growth of Bharatanatyam at Karnataka. Later on, Mysore became the most important seat in developing the styles of Bharatanatyam of Karnataka. The name of Jatti Thayamma and K. Venkatalakshamma are integrally linked to the growth of Bharatanatyam in Karnataka. Although transmitted on a hereditary basis, at present various art schools and academies work tirelessly to promote and educate interested men and women in the practice and performance of this ancient and highly popular classical dance form of India.