Bharatanatyam: The Dance of Devotion, Mythology, and Spiritual Grace
The Eternal Dance of India Bharatanatyam, one of the oldest and most revered classical dance forms of India, is more than just an art of movement—it is a sacred offering. Rooted in Tamil Nadu’s temples, this dance embodies devotion, mythology, and spirituality. Every step, every mudra ( Gesture ), and every expression is a medium to connect the human soul with the divine. Historical Roots: From Temples to the World The origins of Bharatanatyam can be traced back over 2,000 years, with references found in ancient texts like the Natya Shastra written by Bharata. Originally performed in temples as a form of worship, Bharatanatyam was seen as a “ Natya Yoga” —a union of body, mind, and spirit through dance. In its earliest form, Bharatanatyam was performed by Devadasis ( women dedicated to temple service ), who offered this dance as a living prayer to the deities. The temples of Chidambaram, Thanjavur, and Madurai became the cultural centres where this sacred art flourishe...