12. Prelude to Karanas

Chapter 12 of Shall We Dance sets the stage for understanding the Karanas, the foundational movements in Bharatanatyam, by delving into their artistic, narrative, and spiritual significance. Shantha opens with a poignant quote by Martha Graham, “Dance is the hidden language of the soul of the body,” emphasizing that Bharatanatyam is not merely a performance but a spiritual journey where each movement resonates with deeper meaning and intent.

The Natya Shastra: The Guiding Treatise

Shantha and Ram engage in a thoughtful discussion about the Natya Shastra, the ancient Indian treatise attributed to Sage Bharata, which serves as the cornerstone of Bharatanatyam and other classical art forms. The Natya Shastra is presented as an authoritative guide that codifies the principles of:

• Nritta: Pure dance, focusing on technical precision and rhythmic movements.
• Nritya: Expressive dance, blending rhythm with emotion and storytelling.
• Natya: Dramatic performance, combining dialogue, gesture, and narrative.

Shantha explains how this interplay of technical brilliance, emotive storytelling, and dramatic expression forms the foundation of Bharatanatyam. It transforms the dance from a series of movements into a visually captivating narrative that engages both the performer and the audience on a profound level.

Prelude to Karanas: A Sacred Blend

In this chapter, Shantha introduces the Karanas as more than just movements—they are a sacred blend of artistry, narrative depth, and spiritual elevation. She explains that the Karanas, as described in the Natya Shastra, are transitional poses that represent the divine dance of Nataraja, Lord Shiva, and symbolize the cyclical nature of creation, preservation, and destruction.

Artistry in Karanas

Shantha elaborates on how the Karanas serve as the building blocks of Bharatanatyam’s choreography. Each Karana integrates:

• Leg movements for balance and rhythm.
• Hip and torso positions to convey fluidity and grace.
• Arm and hand gestures (hasta mudras) to narrate intricate stories.

These movements are not just technical feats but are imbued with symbolic meanings, making them an essential part of Bharatanatyam’s ability to convey both mythological tales and spiritual truths.

Narrative Depth of Karanas

Ram and Shantha discuss how the Karanas provide a narrative framework for Bharatanatyam. By combining expressive gestures and precise movements, the Karanas enable dancers to portray emotions, characters, and stories with authenticity and depth. Shantha highlights that the Karanas are not static—they are dynamic sequences that evolve with the narrative, adapting to the dancer’s interpretation and the story’s emotional arc.

Spiritual Elevation through Dance

The chapter underscores the spiritual dimension of the Karanas. Shantha explains that performing these movements with devotion and intent allows dancers to transcend the physical realm, creating a connection between the individual soul (Atman) and the universal spirit (Paramatman). This spiritual elevation transforms Bharatanatyam into a meditative practice, where the dancer becomes both the storyteller and the seeker.

Key Insights from the Discussion

• The Natya Shastra serves as a timeless guide, ensuring the preservation of Bharatanatyam’s technical and spiritual elements.
• The Karanas act as a bridge between form and meaning, offering dancers a framework to express complex ideas and emotions.
• Bharatanatyam is a holistic art form where artistry, narrative, and spirituality converge, making each performance a transformative experience for both the performer and the audience.