Unlocking the Ancient Art: A Comprehensive Guide to Bharatanatyam for Beginners

Bharatanatyam, one of the oldest and most revered classical Indian dance forms, is a captivating blend of rhythm, expression, and storytelling. Originating in the temples of Tamil Nadu, South India, this dance form is a deeply spiritual and artistic practice. This comprehensive guide will take you through the foundational steps and elements of Bharatanatyam, allowing you to embark on your own journey into this beautiful art.

Understanding the Essence of Bharatanatyam

Before diving into the steps, it’s crucial to understand the core components of Bharatanatyam:

* **Nritta (Pure Dance):** This focuses on rhythmic movements and patterns, emphasizing technique and precision. It’s abstract and doesn’t convey a specific story.
* **Nritya (Expressive Dance):** This combines rhythm with expression (abhinaya), using hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions, and body language to communicate emotions and narratives.
* **Natya (Dramatic Dance):** This is the dramatic element of Bharatanatyam, often involving enacting stories and characters, drawing from mythology and literature.

Getting Started: Posture and Basic Stance (Aramandi)

The foundation of Bharatanatyam lies in the correct posture and basic stance, known as *Aramandi* or *Ukku Adi*. This stance provides stability and balance, allowing for fluid and controlled movements.

1. **Stand with your feet apart:** Place your feet about shoulder-width apart, turning your toes outward at approximately a 45-degree angle. Imagine drawing a straight line from your heel to your big toe on each foot; these lines should roughly form a right angle.

2. **Bend your knees:** Keeping your back straight, bend your knees outward, ensuring they align with your toes. The depth of the bend will vary depending on your flexibility and comfort level. Aim for a deep bend initially, but gradually reduce it as you develop strength and stamina. Ideally, the thighs should be parallel to the floor or as close as you can comfortably manage.

3. **Maintain a straight back:** This is crucial. Avoid hunching or arching your back. Engage your core muscles to keep your spine erect. Imagine a string pulling you upwards from the crown of your head.

4. **Tuck your pelvis slightly:** Gently tuck your pelvis under to avoid sticking your buttocks out. This helps maintain a neutral spine and prevents lower back strain.

5. **Keep your shoulders relaxed:** Avoid tension in your shoulders. Let them naturally fall downwards and back. Keep your chest open and lifted.

6. **Position your arms:** There are several arm positions depending on the specific step. However, for the basic Aramandi, hold your arms slightly bent at the elbows, with your hands in *Pataka Hasta* (flag hand – all fingers extended and joined together). Your palms should face downwards and be slightly in front of your body. A slight curve in your arms adds to the aesthetic appeal.

7. **Focus your gaze (Drishti):** Look straight ahead with a steady and focused gaze. Avoid wandering eyes. A focused gaze enhances your concentration and expression.

**Tips for Perfecting Aramandi:**

* Practice regularly to build strength and flexibility in your legs and core.
* Use a mirror to check your posture and alignment.
* Record yourself to identify areas for improvement.
* Don’t force yourself into a deep Aramandi immediately. Gradually increase the depth of the bend as you become more comfortable.
* Listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself beyond your limits.

Basic Steps (Adavus): The Building Blocks of Bharatanatyam

*Adavus* are the fundamental rhythmic units or steps in Bharatanatyam. Mastering these basic steps is essential for building a strong foundation in the dance form. Here are some essential Adavus:

1. Tatta Adavu

Tatta Adavu is the most fundamental step and forms the basis for many other Adavus. It involves stamping the feet in different rhythmic patterns.

**Steps:**

1. **Start in Aramandi:** Assume the Aramandi posture as described above.
2. **Tatta (Strike):** Strike the floor with the flat of your foot (heel and toes simultaneously). Use a moderate amount of force.
3. **Uttan (Lift):** Lift the same foot off the floor, keeping the knee bent. The toes should remain close to the ground.
4. **Repeat:** Alternate between *Tatta* and *Uttan* in a specific rhythmic pattern.

**Variations:**

* **Tatta Adavu 1:** Ta-ta-tai-ta-ta-tai-ta-ta-tai-ta-ta-tai (single beat each)
* **Tatta Adavu 2:** Ta-tai-ta-tai-ta-tai-ta-tai (two beats each)
* **Tatta Adavu 3:** Tai-ya-tai-hi-tai-ya-tai-hi (emphasize ‘tai’ and ‘hi’)

**Arm movements:** For Tatta Adavu, the hands are typically held in *Pataka Hasta*, alternating between front and side positions with each beat. For example, on ‘Ta’ the right hand extends to the right, and on the next ‘Ta’ the left hand extends to the left.

2. Natta Adavu

Natta Adavu builds upon Tatta Adavu by incorporating a heel-toe movement.

**Steps:**

1. **Start in Aramandi:** Assume the Aramandi posture.
2. **Tat (Heel):** Strike the floor with your heel.
3. **Tai (Toe):** Strike the floor with your toe.
4. **Tatta (Flat Foot):** Strike the floor with the flat of your foot.
5. **Uttan (Lift):** Lift the same foot off the floor.
6. **Repeat:** Alternate the *Tat-Tai-Tatta-Uttan* sequence.

**Variations:**

* **Natta Adavu 1:** Tat-tai-ta-ta-tai-ta-tat-tai-ta-ta-tai-ta
* **Natta Adavu 2:** Tat-tai-tai-ta-tai-tat-tai-tai-ta-tai

**Arm movements:** The arms can be held in *Pataka Hasta* and moved in various patterns, such as swinging them from side to side or holding one hand near the chest and the other extended to the side.

3. Kuttita Adavu

Kuttita Adavu involves stamping the heel and toes in a specific pattern, with a focus on precise footwork.

**Steps:**

1. **Start in Aramandi:** Assume the Aramandi posture.
2. **Kuttu (Heel):** Strike the floor with your heel.
3. **Titta (Toe):** Strike the floor with your toe.
4. **Repeat:** Alternate *Kuttu* and *Titta* several times on the same foot before switching to the other foot.
5. **Uttan (Lift):** Lift the foot off the floor.

**Variations:**

* **Kuttita Adavu 1:** Kut-ti-ta-kut-ti-ta-kut-ti-ta…
* **Kuttita Adavu 2:** Kut-ta-ti-ta-kut-ta-ti-ta…

**Arm movements:** Arm movements in Kuttita Adavu often involve *Tripataka Hasta* (flag hand with the ring finger bent) held near the chest and extended alternately.

4. Tattu Mettu Adavu

Tattu Mettu Adavu is a combination of stamping the foot and tapping the heel in a rhythmic pattern.

**Steps:**

1. **Start in Aramandi:** Assume the Aramandi posture.
2. **Tattu (Flat Foot):** Strike the floor with the flat of your foot.
3. **Mettu (Heel):** Tap the floor with your heel.
4. **Repeat:** Alternate *Tattu* and *Mettu* on the same foot before switching to the other foot.
5. **Uttan (Lift):** Lift the foot off the floor.

**Variations:**

* **Tattu Mettu Adavu 1:** Tat-tu-met-tu-tat-tu-met-tu…
* **Tattu Mettu Adavu 2:** Tat-tu-met-tu-tai-ya-tat-tu-met-tu-tai-ya…

**Arm movements:** The arms can be held in *Pataka Hasta* or *Tripataka Hasta* and moved in various patterns to complement the footwork.

5. Murka Adavu

Murka Adavu involves a circular movement of the foot, creating a sweeping motion.

**Steps:**

1. **Start in Aramandi:** Assume the Aramandi posture.
2. **Lift your foot:** Lift one foot slightly off the floor.
3. **Circular Motion:** Move your foot in a circular motion, sweeping the floor with your toes.
4. **Strike the floor:** Strike the floor with the flat of your foot at the end of the circular motion.
5. **Repeat:** Repeat the circular motion and strike on the same foot before switching to the other foot.

**Variations:**

* **Murka Adavu 1:** Circular motion followed by a flat foot strike.
* **Murka Adavu 2:** Incorporating different hand gestures and rhythmic patterns.

**Arm movements:** Arm movements in Murka Adavu can be flowing and graceful, often using *Tripataka Hasta* or *Alapadma Hasta* (lotus hand – fingers gently curved) to complement the circular foot movements.

Hand Gestures (Mudras or Hastas)

*Mudras*, or *Hastas*, are symbolic hand gestures that are an integral part of Bharatanatyam. They are used to express ideas, emotions, and characters. There are primarily two categories of Mudras: *Asamyuta Hastas* (single-hand gestures) and *Samyuta Hastas* (double-hand gestures).

Asamyuta Hastas (Single Hand Gestures) – Selection of Important Ones

1. **Pataka Hasta:** The ‘flag’ hand, where all fingers are straight and joined together. Represents a cloud, forest, denial, or blessing. The palm faces forward.
2. **Tripataka Hasta:** Similar to Pataka, but the ring finger is bent. Represents a tree, arrow, crown, flame or Indra (king of Gods).
3. **Ardhapataka Hasta:** Half-flag hand. The little finger is bent forward. Represents leaves, shore, a knife or banner.
4. **Kartarimukha Hasta:** The index and little fingers are extended, while the middle and ring fingers are bent. Represents scissors, separation, crying or lightening.
5. **Mayura Hasta:** The ring finger and thumb are joined, while the other fingers are extended upwards. Represents a peacock, a bird or applying tilaka (forehead mark).
6. **Ardhachandra Hasta:** Half-moon hand. All fingers are extended and the thumb is stretched outwards. Represents the moon, meditation, or the throat.
7. **Mushti Hasta:** Fist. All fingers are bent into the palm and the thumb is placed on top. Represents strength, grasping, or combat.
8. **Shikhara Hasta:** Thumb is raised, the fingers folded into the palm. Represents a bow, pillar, silence or questioning.
9. **Kapitha Hasta:** Index finger is bent over the tip of the thumb; the remaining fingers are held upwards. Represents Lakshmi (goddess of wealth), Saraswati (goddess of knowledge) or holding a flower.
10. **Suchi Hasta:** Index finger pointing upwards, while all other fingers are folded into the palm. Represents the number one, a whip, or a needle.

Samyuta Hastas (Double Hand Gestures) – Selection of Important Ones

1. **Anjali Hasta:** Both hands are joined together in prayer, representing salutation, respect, or reverence. The palms touch completely.
2. **Kapota Hasta:** Similar to Anjali, but the palms are slightly hollowed, resembling a pigeon. Represents a pigeon, agreement, or a humble acceptance.
3. **Karkata Hasta:** The fingers of both hands are interlocked, representing a crab, a group of people, or blowing a conch.
4. **Swastika Hasta:** Both hands are held in Pataka Hasta and crossed at the wrists, representing a crocodile or agreement.
5. **Dola Hasta:** Both hands in Pataka Hasta are held loosely at the sides. Represents the beginning of a dance.
6. **Pushpanjali Hasta:** Hands are joined together as though offering flowers, symbolizing offering and devotion. Hands are held in *Sarpashirsha* (snake’s head) and offered upwards.
7. **Utsanga Hasta:** Hands are placed crossed on the upper arms, showing embrace or modesty.
8. **Gaja Danta Hasta:** Hands simulate elephant tusks. Represents the tusks of an elephant or a strong character.
9. **Shivalinga Hasta:** One hand forms a fist (Mushti) and is placed over the palm of the other. Represents the symbol of Lord Shiva.
10. **Namaste Hasta:** Palms are together and held slightly away from the chest. A gesture of greeting or respect.

**Learning and Practicing Mudras:**

* Study the meanings and uses of each Mudra.
* Practice forming the Mudras correctly and precisely.
* Use Mudras in conjunction with facial expressions and body language to enhance their expressiveness.
* Learn to transition smoothly between different Mudras.

Facial Expressions (Abhinaya)

*Abhinaya* refers to the art of expression, and facial expressions are a crucial aspect of it in Bharatanatyam. The eyes, eyebrows, lips, and other facial muscles are used to convey a wide range of emotions and sentiments.

**Key Facial Expressions:**

* **Shringara (Love):** Expressed through soft, gentle eyes, a slight smile, and graceful movements.
* **Hasya (Humor):** Conveyed through laughter, teasing glances, and playful gestures.
* **Karuna (Compassion):** Shown through sorrowful eyes, a downturned mouth, and empathetic expressions.
* **Raudra (Anger):** Depicted through widened eyes, furrowed brows, and a fierce expression.
* **Veera (Courage):** Displayed through a strong, determined gaze, a firm jawline, and confident posture.
* **Bhayanaka (Fear):** Expressed through wide, startled eyes, trembling lips, and a frightened expression.
* **Bibhatsa (Disgust):** Conveyed through a wrinkled nose, a grimace, and averted gaze.
* **Adbhuta (Wonder):** Shown through wide, amazed eyes, an open mouth, and a sense of awe.
* **Shanta (Peace):** Expressed through calm, serene eyes, a relaxed face, and a tranquil demeanor.

**Developing Abhinaya:**

* Practice observing and identifying different emotions in yourself and others.
* Use a mirror to experiment with different facial expressions.
* Learn to coordinate facial expressions with Mudras and body movements.
* Study the techniques used by experienced Bharatanatyam dancers.

Rhythm and Music

Bharatanatyam is deeply intertwined with rhythm and music. The dance is typically accompanied by a Carnatic music ensemble, which includes instruments such as the *mridangam* (percussion), *violin*, *flute*, and *tambura* (drone instrument).

**Key Rhythmic Elements:**

* **Tala (Rhythmic Cycle):** Bharatanatyam is performed within specific rhythmic cycles or *talas*. Common talas include *Adi Tala*, *Rupaka Tala*, and *Mishra Chapu Tala*.
* **Laya (Tempo):** The tempo or speed of the music and dance can vary, ranging from slow (*vilambita*) to medium (*madhya*) to fast (*druta*).
* **Theka (Rhythmic Pattern):** The *theka* is the basic rhythmic pattern played on the *mridangam*, providing the foundation for the dance.

**Understanding Rhythm:**

* Learn to identify and count different *talas*.
* Practice coordinating your footwork with the *theka*.
* Develop a sense of rhythm and timing.
* Listen to and appreciate Carnatic music.

Costume and Jewelry

The traditional Bharatanatyam costume is both beautiful and functional, designed to enhance the dancer’s movements and visual appeal. The costume typically consists of:

* **Sari:** A silk sari that is specially tailored for Bharatanatyam, with pleats that fan out during movements.
* **Blouse:** A fitted blouse that covers the upper body.
* **Fan-like Pleats:** Several fan-like pleats attached in the front that enhance movement and visual aesthetics.
* **Jewelry:** Traditional jewelry, including a headpiece, earrings, necklaces, armlets, bracelets, and anklets (ghungroos).
* **Ghungroos:** Anklets adorned with small bells that create rhythmic sounds during the dance.

**The Significance of Costume and Jewelry:**

* The costume and jewelry enhance the dancer’s appearance and create a visually stunning performance.
* The *ghungroos* amplify the rhythmic footwork and add to the overall musicality of the dance.
* The jewelry often symbolizes various deities and elements from mythology.

Progression and Further Learning

Learning Bharatanatyam is a journey that requires dedication, patience, and perseverance. Here are some tips for progressing in your Bharatanatyam studies:

* **Find a Qualified Teacher:** Seek guidance from an experienced and knowledgeable Bharatanatyam teacher who can provide personalized instruction and feedback.
* **Practice Regularly:** Consistent practice is essential for developing your technique, stamina, and expressiveness.
* **Attend Workshops and Performances:** Attend workshops and performances by renowned Bharatanatyam dancers to learn from their expertise and gain inspiration.
* **Study the Theory and History of Bharatanatyam:** Deepen your understanding of the dance form by studying its history, mythology, and philosophical underpinnings.
* **Embrace the Spiritual Dimension:** Bharatanatyam is a deeply spiritual art form. Embrace its spiritual dimension by understanding the underlying themes and emotions.

Conclusion

Bharatanatyam is more than just a dance form; it is a holistic art that integrates movement, music, expression, and spirituality. By mastering the basic steps, understanding the Mudras and facial expressions, and immersing yourself in the rhythm and music, you can unlock the ancient art of Bharatanatyam and embark on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression. Remember to be patient, persistent, and passionate in your pursuit of this beautiful and rewarding art form. The path to mastery is long, but the rewards – increased self-awareness, discipline, and an appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of India – are well worth the effort. So, put on your *ghungroos*, find your *Aramandi*, and begin your Bharatanatyam journey today!