Bharatanatyam is a beautiful classical dance that originated in Tamil Nadu, India. Bharatanatyam comes from bhavam (expression), ragam (melody), thalam (rhythm), and natyam (dance). Bharatanatyam was founded by Lord Brahma and the Lord Shiva, the God of dance, who adapted Bharata's interpretations.

In Bharatanatyam, there are 3 sections which are ...

Nirutham 

Niruthiyam 

Nattiyam 

 

Nirutham is a pure dance which does not include facial expression, it is used to show pure techniques of complicated timing rhythms, posture and footwork. 

Niruthiyam is a form of dance that contains movements of the body, hand, leg and feet together with facial expressions having meanings to convey and may express small episodes, a sentence or it can be a whole drama. 

Natiyam is a combination of dancing and acting it expresses a mood or emotion through a story. The dancer might use their imagination to bring a story to show her ideas. Natyium demands imagination to be able to show a proper interpretation of the theme in Abhinayam. 

Bharatanatyam contains 8 grades. grade 1 and 2 only has practicals where they will be tested on Aduvas, a basic dance step, they have learnt. In grade 2 they will be tested on Aduvas, hand movements and other questions. In grades 3 to 8 there with be theory exams and a syllabus to follow and learn before going to the exam.

Various forms of dances such as Alarippu are used as an offering at the beginning of the devotional worship. 

The dancer normally wears a magnificent dress and jewellery when performing on the stage, the dresses are called sari the dancer wears heavy makeup to emphasise her facial expressions. 

Bharatanatyam is an amazing dance that should be experienced by all.