Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam is a traditional form of Indian classical dance that originated in Tamilnadu. Bha meaning emotion (Bhava), Ra meaning music (Raaga) , Ta meaning rhythm (Taal) and Natyam meaning dance. Thus Bharatanatyam is the dance that encompasses music, rhythm and expression and strictly adheres to the Natyashastra (the scripture of classical Indian dance). I’ve been a student of this Indian Classical Dance form for over twelve years!

The performance repertoire of Bharatanatyam, like other classical dances, includes nrita (pure dance), nritya (solo expressive dance) and natya (group dramatic dance). Understanding such as ancient art form has only deepened my love for dance and piqued my curiosity towards other ways I can use dance in my life. Bharatanatyam being my first formal instruction of dance, will continue to inform my love of dance for years to come!