Bharatanatyam Adavus (Blog 7 of 8) : Melattur Bani

The Melattur Bani of Bharatanatyam, rooted in the Bhagavata Mela tradition, is celebrated for its dramatic flair, intricate expressions, and rich storytelling elements. The adavus (basic steps) in this bani emphasize a balance between technical precision and theatrical presentation. Movements in this style often include dramatic pauses and flourishes, enhancing the emotional depth of the performance. Below is a description of the types of adavus in Melattur Bani, including the number of steps for each.

1. Tatta Adavu (Tapping Step)

• Description: Involves rhythmic tapping of the feet in Aramandi (half-sitting posture). In Melattur Bani, the adavu includes a more pronounced pause to emphasize the rhythm and dramatic effect.
• Number of Steps: Usually 8 variations, each with 4 to 8 steps.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Thai Tha Tha”.

2. Natta Adavu (Stretching Step)

• Description: Combines leg stretches with bold, theatrical hand gestures. The emphasis is on maintaining graceful transitions and projecting strong visual energy.
• Number of Steps: Typically 6 to 8 steps per variation, performed in chatusra nadai (4-beat cycle).
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Tai Tha Ha”.

3. Visharu Adavu (Diagonal or Spread-Out Step)

• Description: Involves diagonal crossing and spreading movements of the legs, paired with expressive hand gestures. The Melattur Bani highlights sweeping arm movements and deliberate pauses for dramatic effect.
• Number of Steps: Usually 8 steps per variation, with some advanced sequences extending to 16 steps.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Dhit Thai”.

4. Teermanam Adavu (Ending Step)

• Description: A concluding step performed with dramatic flair, often incorporating head, neck, and eye movements. The Teermanam Adavu in Melattur Bani emphasizes both rhythm and theatricality.
• Number of Steps: Performed in sets of 3 steps, repeated three times for a total of 9 steps.
  • Example of syllables: “Tai Tai Dhit Dhit Tai”.

5. Kudittametti Adavu (Jumping Step)

• Description: Combines rhythmic foot tapping with small jumps. In Melattur Bani, the movements are more dynamic, with expressive hand and eye gestures accompanying the jumps.
• Number of Steps: Generally 8 steps per variation, synchronized with the tala.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Ka Dhi Mi”.

6. Sarukkal Adavu (Sliding Step)

• Description: Involves controlled sliding movements of the feet, often performed with subtle yet expressive hand gestures. The movements are smooth, and dramatic pauses are added to emphasize storytelling.
• Number of Steps: Typically 4 to 8 steps per variation, depending on the complexity.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Dhit Thai”.

7. Mandi Adavu (Kneeling Step)

• Description: Performed in a kneeling posture, requiring balance and strength. In Melattur Bani, this adavu incorporates dynamic body movements and dramatic poses for heightened visual impact.
• Number of Steps: Generally performed in 6 to 8 steps per variation, depending on the tala.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Tai Tha Tha Dhit Tai”.

8. Jati Adavu (Combination Step)

• Description: Combines movements from various adavus into one sequence. The Melattur Bani focuses on intricate rhythmic patterns and dramatic pauses in these combinations.
• Number of Steps: Typically involves 16 to 32 steps per sequence, depending on the complexity of the tala.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Ka Dhi Mi Tha Tai Tha Tha”.

9. Tatti Metti Adavu (Heel Tapping Step)

• Description: Alternates rhythmic heel tapping with soft toe movements. In Melattur Bani, this adavu incorporates expressive pauses to emphasize rhythmic clarity.
• Number of Steps: Usually 4 to 8 steps per variation, performed with precision and grace.
  • Example of syllables: “Dhit Tai Tha Tai”.

10. Kuditthu Adavu (Leaping Step)

• Description: Involves energetic leaps and jumps, often paired with expressive upper-body movements. The Melattur Bani version of this adavu emphasizes height and dramatic landings.
• Number of Steps: Typically 4 to 8 steps per sequence, depending on the tala.
  • Example of syllables: “Dhit Tai Thai Dhit”.

Key Features of Melattur Bani Adavus

1. Theatrical Flourishes: Movements often include pauses and dramatic gestures to enhance storytelling.
2. Expressive Integration: Even in pure dance sequences (nritta), elements of abhinaya (expression) are subtly included.
3. Rhythmic Clarity: The adavus are perfectly aligned with rhythmic cycles, ensuring a clear and impactful presentation.
4. Dynamic Poses: Each adavu incorporates distinct poses that enhance the visual appeal of the performance.

Summary Table of Adavus in Melattur Bani

In summary : 

The Melattur Bani is known for its dramatic elements and emphasis on storytelling through movement. Each adavu in this bani is a combination of precision, rhythm, and emotional depth, making it a unique and visually compelling style.