08. Theoretical Framework of Bharatanatyam

In Chapter 8 of Shall We Dance, Shantha & Ram explores the theoretical foundations of Bharatanatyam, shedding light on the intricate interplay of its core elements. This chapter serves as a guide to understanding the principles that govern the dance form, emphasizing its structured approach, cultural richness, and enduring relevance.

The Five Essential Elements of Movement

Shantha begins by explaining the five essential elements that form the backbone of Bharatanatyam:

1. Space: The dancer’s relationship with the performance area, ensuring precise placement and transitions.
2. Time: The rhythm (tala) that defines the pace and synchronization of movements.
3. Force: The energy dynamics—gentle or vigorous—that infuse the dance with emotion and intensity.
4. Body: The dancer’s physical alignment, postures, and expressions.
5. Form: The aesthetic presentation, maintaining the art’s visual and symbolic beauty.

By mastering these elements, a dancer develops not only technical proficiency but also a deeper understanding of Bharatanatyam as a harmonious fusion of art and science.

Bharatanatyam’s Structural Components

Shantha delves into the key components of Bharatanatyam, as described in the Natya Shastra, emphasizing their roles in building a complete performance:

1. Adavus (Foundational Units):
   • These basic steps combine rhythm, posture, and gestures, forming the building blocks of choreography.
   • Shantha highlights their importance in cultivating coordination, stamina, and precision in dancers.
2. Hastas (Expressive Hand Gestures):
   • Hasta Mudras are the language of Bharatanatyam, conveying complex ideas and emotions through hand movements.
   • These gestures serve as tools for storytelling, connecting the dancer with the audience on a symbolic level.
3. Abhinaya (Storytelling):
   • The art of expression, Abhinaya integrates gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to narrate stories and evoke emotions.
   • Shantha explains the four types of Abhinaya:
     • Angika (Physical gestures)
     • Vachika (Verbal expressions through lyrics or recitation)
     • Aharya (Visual expressions through costume and makeup)
     • Satvika (Inner emotional resonance)
4. Nritta (Pure Dance):
   • The rhythmic and abstract aspect of Bharatanatyam, focusing on patterns and precision without narrative elements.
5. Natya (Dramatic Enactment):
   • The storytelling dimension, blending drama and dance to depict mythological or spiritual themes.

Margi and Desi Traditions

Shantha explains the Margi and Desi traditions, which enrich Bharatanatyam’s diversity:

• Margi: The classical tradition rooted in the Natya Shastra, emphasizing spiritual and ritualistic purity.
• Desi: The regional adaptations, reflecting local flavors, folklore, and cultural practices.

These dual traditions underscore Bharatanatyam’s ability to preserve its classical essence while embracing regional influences, making it both timeless and adaptable.

Rasa and Bhava: The Soul of Bharatanatyam

Central to Bharatanatyam’s theoretical framework are the concepts of Rasa and Bhava, which bring emotional depth and spiritual connection to performances:

• Rasa: The aesthetic experience evoked in the audience, encompassing emotions like love (Shringara), wonder (Adbhuta), and peace (Shanta).
• Bhava: The emotional states expressed by the dancer, serving as the foundation for evoking Rasa.

Shantha emphasizes that Bharatanatyam’s power lies in its ability to create a shared emotional journey between the performer and the audience, transcending language and cultural barriers.

A Holistic Framework for Growth

The chapter concludes by highlighting how this holistic theoretical framework ensures a dancer’s technical growth and artistic development:

• It supports preservation of the art form by maintaining its classical roots.
• It fosters innovation by allowing dancers to adapt Bharatanatyam to contemporary themes while respecting tradition.
• It provides a structured approach for teaching and learning, ensuring that each generation inherits the knowledge and skills required to keep the art alive.