History of Bharatnatyam

History of Bharatnatyam

• Origins:

  • Bharatnatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India, originating in Tamil Nadu.
  • Traces back to the Natya Shastra, an ancient treatise on performing arts written by Bharata Muni around 200 BCE to 200 CE.

• Traditional Context:

  • Initially performed by Devadasis (temple dancers) in Hindu temples as a form of worship.
  • The dance was meant to convey religious themes and stories from Hindu mythology.

• Colonial Impact:

  • The British colonial rule in India led to a decline in the status of the dance.
  • It was associated with temple practices, which faced scrutiny and suppression during colonial times.

• Revival:

  • In the early 20th century, leaders such as Rukmini Devi Arundale played a crucial role in reviving and redefining Bharatnatyam.
  • The dance was restructured, emphasizing its artistic and cultural significance rather than its religious origins.

• Modern Era:

  • Bharatnatyam gained popularity beyond India, becoming a symbol of Indian culture.
  • Today, it is performed globally, showcasing its rich heritage and evolution.

• Notable Figures:

  • Rukmini Devi Arundale: Key in the revival and reformation of Bharatnatyam.
  • Other influential dancers include Balasaraswati, Kumudini Lakhia, and Alarmel Valli.

• Cultural Significance:

  • Bharatnatyam serves as a medium for storytelling, expressing emotions and themes through facial expressions (abhinaya) and intricate footwork.
  • It is recognized as a significant part of India's cultural heritage and continues to evolve while retaining its traditional roots.

Origins

• Bharatnatyam, rooted in Tamil Nadu, is one of India's oldest classical dance forms.
• Originates from the Natya Shastra, written by Bharata Muni between 200 BCE and 200 CE.

Traditional Context

• Initially performed by Devadasis, temple dancers who used the art form for worship.
• Focused on conveying religious themes and stories from Hindu mythology through dance.

Colonial Impact

• British colonial rule led to the decline of Bharatnatyam's status as it was associated with temple practices facing scrutiny.
• Suppression during colonial times impacted the performance and preservation of this dance form.

Revival

• Early 20th century saw a significant revival led by figures like Rukmini Devi Arundale.
• The dance was restructured to highlight artistic and cultural significance, moving away from its purely religious origins.

Modern Era

• Bharatnatyam's popularity expanded globally, symbolizing Indian culture.
• Currently performed worldwide, it showcases a rich heritage while embracing evolution.

Notable Figures

• Rukmini Devi Arundale played a key role in Bharatnatyam's revival and reformation.
• Other influential dancers include Balasaraswati, Kumudini Lakhia, and Alarmel Valli, each contributing to its development.

Cultural Significance

• Served as a medium for storytelling, expressing emotions through facial expressions (abhinaya) and intricate footwork.
• Recognized as an essential part of India's cultural heritage, it continues to evolve while maintaining traditional roots.

Explore the rich history of Bharatnatyam, one of India's oldest classical dance forms. Learn about its origins in Tamil Nadu, the influence of British colonial rule, and the significant revival efforts in the 20th century. Discover how this dance evolved from temple worship to a celebrated art form today.