Costumes, Abhinaya, and Symbolism: The Living Heritage of Bharatanatyam

Introduction

Bharatanatyam, one of India’s most revered classical dance traditions, is more than an artistic performance it is a spiritual practice that unites body, mind, and soul. Originating in the sacred temples of Tamil Nadu, this dance has been described as Natya Yoga, an artistic form of yoga that channels discipline, devotion, and storytelling. Its roots are traced back to Sage Bharata, the author of the Natyashastra, the ancient treatise on performing arts. Though its codified grammar dates back over two millennia, Bharatanatyam continues to resonate with freshness and relevance. Sculptural evidence from as early as the 5th century A.D. depicts dancers frozen in poses identical to Bharatanatyam postures, affirming its antiquity and its enduring power to uplift both performer and audience through the union of Bhava (expression), Raga (melody), Tala (rhythm), and Natya (drama).

Etymology of Bharatanatyam

The very name “Bharatanatyam” encapsulates the holistic essence of the art. Scholars interpret it as an acronym:

• Bha – Bhava (expression)
• Ra – Raga (melody)
• Ta – Tala (rhythm)
• Natya – drama

Together, these elements define Bharatanatyam as a complete art form where storytelling, music, rhythm, and emotion converge seamlessly.

Origins in Temples

In its earliest form, Bharatanatyam was performed not as entertainment but as a sacred offering to deities. Dancers used intricate gestures (mudras) and rhythmic footwork to narrate mythological stories, embodying devotion and surrender. This spiritual foundation transformed Bharatanatyam into a medium of communion with the divine, elevating both performer and spectator into a shared experience of transcendence.

Historical Roots

Bharatanatyam is deeply Rooted in The Natyashastra, which codified gestures, postures, and expressions. Temple sculptures at Chidambaram and other sites depict dancers in poses identical to Bharatanatyam movements, serving as visual testimony to the continuity of this tradition across centuries. These carvings highlight how Bharatanatyam has remained faithful to its grammar while evolving in presentation.

Bharatanatyam in the Colonial Era

During colonial rule, Bharatanatyam faced decline due to the suppression of the Devadasi system. Once sacred, the dance became stigmatized and marginalized. Yet, scholars and reformers recognized its cultural and spiritual value. Their efforts ensured that Bharatanatyam was not lost but preserved for future generations, even as it struggled against social prejudice.

Revival in the 20th Century

The modern resurgence of Bharatanatyam owes much to pioneers like Rukmini Devi Arundale, who redefined the dance as a respected art form. She brought it from temple courtyards to theatrical stages, emphasizing its spiritual and aesthetic dimensions. Reformers eliminated exploitative practices linked to the Devadasi tradition while retaining its devotional essence, reshaping Bharatanatyam into a performance art accessible to all.

Evolution and Development

Over time, Bharatanatyam evolved stylistically, incorporating new themes while preserving its classical grammar. Today, it is performed worldwide, blending tradition with innovation. Contemporary choreographers experiment with modern narratives, yet the dance remains anchored in its spiritual and cultural roots, ensuring continuity amidst change.

Adavus: The Building Blocks

At the heart of Bharatanatyam are Adavus, the basic units of movement combining footwork, hand gestures, and body postures. Ancient treatises describe these foundational steps, which dancers practice rigorously.

• Types of Adavus: Tatta Adavu, Natta Adavu, Kuditta Mettu Adavu, each with distinct rhythm and posture.
• Practice: Daily repetition builds stamina, precision, and grace, forming the backbone of Bharatanatyam technique.

Technique and Posture

The technique emphasizes geometric precision, rhythmic footwork, and expressive gestures. The dancer maintains Araimandi (half-sitting posture), symbolizing stability and devotion. Every movement is deliberate, embodying discipline and meditative focus.

Role of Dancers in Storytelling

Central to Bharatanatyam is the portrayal of characters and emotions:

• Nayika Bhava: The heroine depicted in eight emotional states (Ashtanayika), ranging from longing to anger to devotion.
• Nayaka Bhava: The male counterpart, reflecting varied moods and relationships.
• Patra in Scriptures: The Abhinaya Darpana outlines ten essential qualities (Patra Prana Dasha) of a dancer, including grace, rhythm, memory, and devotion.

Regional Styles: Melattur Tradition

Among the many stylistic schools, the Melattur style stands out for its intricate footwork, expressive abhinaya, and devotional themes. Dancers of this style are admired for their precision and spiritual intensity, keeping alive the devotional fervor of Bharatanatyam.

Costumes and Ornamentation

Costumes in Bharatanatyam are vibrant and symbolic:

• Women: Silk sarees stitched for dance, with pleats that fan out during movements.
• Men: Dhoti-style costumes with angavastram.
• Ghungroo: Bells tied to ankles accentuate rhythm.
• Jewellery: Traditional ornaments like oddiyanam (waist belt) and nethi chutti (forehead piece).
• Makeup: Bold eye makeup highlights expressions, while red alta on hands and feet emphasizes gestures.

Bharatanatyam and Devadasi Culture

Historically, Devadasis performed Bharatanatyam as an offering to gods. With the decline of the system, the dance faced neglect but was later revived as cultural heritage, stripped of exploitative associations yet retaining its devotional spirit.

Elements of the Repertoire

A Bharatanatyam performance follows a structured sequence:

• Alarippu – Rhythmic invocation
• Jatisvaram – Pure dance with melody
• Sabdam – Expressive storytelling
• Varnam – Central piece combining pure dance (nritta) and expression (abhinaya)
• Padams & Devaranama – Devotional songs
• Tillana – Concluding rhythmic piece
• Mangalam – Benediction

Arangetram: The Debut

The Arangetram, or debut performance, marks the culmination of years of training. It is both a rite of passage and a spiritual offering, symbolizing the dancer’s readiness to share their art with the world.

Symbolism and Expression

Bharatanatyam embodies four dimensions of expression:

• Angika – Physical gestures
• Vachika – Spoken or sung word
• Aharya – Costume and ornamentation
• Sattvika – Inner emotion

Hand gestures (mudras) are classified into Asamyuta Hastas (single-handed), Samyuta Hastas (double-handed), and Nrtta Hastas (pure dance), each adding layers of meaning to the performance.

Yogic and Devotional Influence

Deeply influenced by yoga and bhakti traditions, Bharatanatyam Mirrors Yogic Postures and reflects devotion to deities. It is not merely performance but meditation in motion, where every gesture becomes an act of worship.

Conclusion

Bharatanatyam is far more than a dance it is a spiritual journey, a cultural treasure, and a living tradition. From its temple origins to global stages, it continues to inspire devotion, discipline, and artistry. Its blend of rhythm, expression, and symbolism makes it one of the most profound embodiments of Indian heritage, ensuring that this timeless art form remains vibrant for generations to come.