Bharatanatyam Adavus (Blog 8 of 8) : Mysore Bani

The Mysore Bani of Bharatanatyam, originating from the Mysore royal court, is known for its graceful, fluid, and rhythmic movements, striking a balance between technical perfection and expressive beauty. The adavus in this bani emphasize soft transitions, elegant postures, and a seamless blend of nritta (pure dance) and abhinaya (expression). Below is a detailed description of the types of adavus in the Mysore Bani, along with the number of steps for each.

1. Tatta Adavu (Tapping Step)

• Description: Involves rhythmic tapping of the feet in the Aramandi (half-sitting position), synchronized with clean and elegant hand movements. The Mysore Bani focuses on the smoothness of transitions and rounded hand gestures.
• Number of Steps: Typically performed in 8 variations, each consisting of 4 to 8 steps.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Thai Tha Tha”.

2. Natta Adavu (Stretching Step)

• Description: Combines leg stretching with flowing hand gestures, emphasizing the dancer’s posture and balance. The hand movements are soft and rounded, maintaining grace throughout.
• Number of Steps: Usually 6 to 8 steps per variation, performed in chatusra nadai (4-beat cycle) or tisra nadai (3-beat cycle).
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Tai Tha Ha”.

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

• Description: Features sweeping diagonal movements of the legs and graceful arm extensions. The movements are expansive, creating a dynamic visual impact while retaining the soft aesthetics of the Mysore Bani.
• Number of Steps: Typically 8 steps per variation, with some sequences extending to 16 steps.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Dhit Thai”.

4. Teermanam Adavu (Ending Step)

• Description: Used to conclude a sequence, this adavu emphasizes clarity in footwork and rhythmic symmetry. Mysore Bani often integrates expressive head and hand movements to enhance its visual appeal.
• 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 gentle jumps. In Mysore Bani, the jumps are performed with a lightness that creates an illusion of effortless grace.
• Number of Steps: Generally 8 steps per variation, aligned with the tala (rhythmic cycle).
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Ka Dhi Mi”.

6. Sarukkal Adavu (Sliding Step)

• Description: Involves sliding movements of the feet, performed with fluid hand gestures. The Mysore Bani emphasizes a seamless flow between steps, enhancing the dancer’s grace and stage presence.
• Number of Steps: Usually 4 to 8 steps per sequence, depending on the rhythmic complexity.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Dhit Thai”.

7. Mandi Adavu (Kneeling Step)

• Description: Executed in a kneeling or seated posture, showcasing balance and strength. In Mysore Bani, this adavu is characterized by soft, controlled transitions and precise rhythmic execution.
• 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 elements from various adavus into a rhythmic sequence. Mysore Bani incorporates fluid transitions and balanced movements, maintaining both technical accuracy and aesthetic appeal.
• Number of Steps: Typically involves 16 to 32 steps, depending on the complexity and rhythmic pattern.
  • 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. Mysore Bani emphasizes clean execution, maintaining symmetry and grace.
• Number of Steps: Usually 4 to 8 steps per sequence, performed in a rhythmic cycle.
  • Example of syllables: “Dhit Tai Tha Tai”.

10. Kuditthu Adavu (Leaping Step)

• Description: Involves small, controlled leaps that exude energy and elegance. The Mysore Bani focuses on soft landings and fluidity, creating an impression of lightness.
• Number of Steps: Typically 4 to 8 steps per variation, depending on the tala.
  • Example of syllables: “Dhit Tai Thai Dhit”.

Key Features of Mysore Bani Adavus

1. Graceful Movements: The emphasis is on maintaining fluidity and elegance in every movement, ensuring a seamless flow between steps.
2. Rounded Gestures: Hand movements are soft and rounded, avoiding sharp angles to enhance visual appeal.
3. Balanced Rhythms: The adavus are perfectly aligned with the rhythmic cycles, ensuring a harmonious presentation.
4. Expressive Integration: Even pure dance sequences (nritta) subtly incorporate elements of expression (abhinaya) to enhance storytelling.

Summary Table of Adavus in Mysore Bani

In summary : 

The Mysore Bani combines technical accuracy with artistic elegance, creating a style that is both visually appealing and deeply rooted in tradition. Each adavu is designed to showcase the dancer’s mastery over rhythm, grace, and expression, making this bani a harmonious blend of nritta and abhinaya.