Author: Ram Krishnamani Date: January 25, 2025
In Bharatanatyam, the way adavus (basic steps) are taught and performed can vary based on the school of thought, also known as Bani. These schools have evolved over centuries, each contributing its unique style, methodology, and interpretation to the dance form. The differences in adavus across these Banis reflect variations in postures, rhythm, emphasis, and aesthetics.
Here are the primary schools of thought in Bharatanatyam and their distinctions in teaching adavus:
1. Tanjore Bani
- Origin: Rooted in the Tanjore court traditions.
- Adavus Style: Focuses on clean lines, precise movements, and balanced postures.
- Key Features:
- Emphasis on perfection in the Aramandi (half-sitting position).
- Smooth transitions between steps.
- Rhythmic precision in footwork with minimal ornamentation in movements.
- Distinctive Adavus: Often simpler yet highly symmetrical and graceful.
2. Kalakshetra Bani
- Origin: Established by Rukmini Devi Arundale at Kalakshetra, Chennai.
- Adavus Style: Highly structured and methodical.
- Key Features:
- Strong emphasis on geometry and alignment.
- Movements are expansive, with a focus on the dancer’s posture and symmetry.
- Simplified and codified adavu sequences for easier learning and teaching.
- Distinctive Adavus: Known for their clarity and uniformity, often performed with straight lines and wider arm movements.
3. Vazhuvoor Bani
- Origin: Developed by the Vazhuvoor family of Tamil Nadu.
- Adavus Style: Known for its fluidity and dramatic expressions.
- Key Features:
- Emphasis on graceful, sweeping movements and soft transitions.
- Inclusion of intricate rhythmic patterns in adavus.
- Subtle yet highly expressive hand gestures and facial expressions.
- Distinctive Adavus: Incorporates sarukkal (sliding) and leaps, creating a flowing and lyrical quality.
4. Pandanallur Bani
- Origin: Originated in the Pandanallur region of Tamil Nadu.
- Adavus Style: Known for its emphasis on tradition and simplicity.
- Key Features:
- Movements are deliberate, restrained, and deeply rooted in classical aesthetics.
- Focus on intricate footwork with minimal upper-body movements.
- Strong use of mudras for storytelling.
- Distinctive Adavus: Crisp and focused on precise rhythmic execution rather than elaborate gestures.
5. Melattur Bani
- Origin: Traces back to the Melattur Bhagavata Mela tradition.
- Adavus Style: Vibrant and dramatic, blending dance with theatrical elements.
- Key Features:
- Rich use of expressions (Abhinaya).
- Dynamic and energetic movements.
- Incorporation of dramatic elements in adavu sequences to enhance storytelling.
- Distinctive Adavus: Highly rhythmic with sudden transitions and theatrical flourishes.
6. Mysore Bani
- Origin: Evolved under the patronage of the Mysore royal court.
- Adavus Style: A balanced blend of grace, rhythm, and expressions.
- Key Features:
- Movements are elegant and fluid, with attention to subtlety.
- Rhythmic complexity and intricate patterns in footwork.
- Balanced focus on both Nritta (pure dance) and Abhinaya (expression).
- Distinctive Adavus: Emphasizes smooth, flowing transitions and intricate rhythmic cycles.
Comparison of Banis in Adavu Execution
| Bani | Adavu Style | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Tanjore | Clean, precise, balanced | Focus on perfection and symmetry in Aramandi. |
| Kalakshetra | Methodical, structured | Simplified, geometric, and codified for uniformity. |
| Vazhuvoor | Fluid, expressive | Graceful, lyrical movements with subtle dramatic flourishes. |
| Pandanallur | Traditional, restrained | Emphasis on simplicity and precise rhythm. |
| Melattur | Dramatic, vibrant | Rich theatrical elements and expressive storytelling. |
| Mysore | Graceful, rhythmic | Balanced focus on elegance, rhythm, and Abhinaya. |
How Adavus Differ Across Banis
- Posture (Aramandi): Some Banis emphasize a deeper half-sitting posture (e.g., Tanjore), while others may favor a more upright stance (e.g., Kalakshetra).
- Footwork: Variations in rhythm and intensity of steps. Pandanallur focuses on crisp footwork, whereas Vazhuvoor incorporates softer transitions.
- Hand Movements: Kalakshetra Bani uses expansive, straight-line gestures, while Vazhuvoor and Melattur highlight more fluid, expressive gestures.
- Expression (Abhinaya): Dramatic Banis like Melattur and Vazhuvoor emphasize storytelling, while Kalakshetra focuses on structured and restrained expressions.
