Bharatanatyam Adavus (Blog 3 of 8) : Thanjavur Bani

In the Thanjavur Bani, which is one of the oldest and most traditional schools of Bharatanatyam, adavus are executed with a focus on precision, balance, and grace. Here is a detailed description of the types of adavus in the Tanjore Bani, along with the number of steps in each:

1. Tatta Adavu (Tapping Step)

• Description: This adavu involves rhythmic tapping of the feet in the Aramandi (half-sitting position), synchronized with hand movements.
• Number of Steps: Usually performed in 8 variations, with 4 to 8 steps in each variation. The movements are symmetrical and emphasize rhythm.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Thai Tha Tha”.

2. Natta Adavu (Stretching Step)

• Description: Combines leg extensions with hand gestures. This adavu emphasizes balance and alignment.
• Number of Steps: Typically 6 to 8 steps per sequence. It is performed in chatusra (4-beat) or tisra (3-beat) nadai.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Tai Tha Ha”.

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

• Description: Includes sweeping diagonal leg movements combined with flowing hand gestures, creating a dynamic, expansive effect.
• Number of Steps: Usually 8 steps per variation, but some advanced forms may extend to 16 steps.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Dhit Thai”.

4. Teermanam Adavu (Ending Step)

• Description: Used to conclude a segment of the dance. This adavu features strong rhythmic patterns and synchronized movements.
• Number of Steps: Typically performed in cycles of 3 steps, repeated three times (making a total of 9 steps).
  • Example of syllables: “Tai Tai Dhit Dhit Tai”.

5. Kudittametti Adavu (Jumping Step)

• Description: Combines gentle jumping motions with rhythmic footwork and expressive hand gestures.
• Number of Steps: Typically 8 steps per variation, performed in sync with the tala (rhythmic cycle).
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Ka Dhi Mi”.

6. Sarukkal Adavu (Sliding Step)

• Description: Features sliding movements of the feet, often performed with subtle hand gestures for storytelling.
• 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: Performed in a seated or kneeling position, requiring balance and strength. Movements include small leaps and rhythmic footwork.
• Number of Steps: Generally 6 to 8 steps, depending on the variation.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Tai Tha Tha Dhit Tai”.

8. Jati Adavu (Combination Step)

• Description: Combines movements from multiple adavus into one sequence, showcasing rhythmic complexity and technical skill.
• Number of Steps: Typically involves 16 to 32 steps per cycle, depending on the tala and choreography.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Ka Dhi Mi Tha Tai Tha Tha”.

9. Tatti Metti Adavu (Heel Tapping Step)

• Description: Alternates between heel taps and rhythmic movements, emphasizing balance and rhythm.
• Number of Steps: Performed in 4 to 8 steps per variation, with variations introducing complexity in beats.
  • Example of syllables: “Dhit Tai Tha Tai”.

10. Kuditthu Adavu (Leaping Step)

• Description: Involves leaping movements, emphasizing energy, height, and grace.
• Number of Steps: Generally consists of 4 to 8 steps per sequence, depending on the tala.
  • Example of syllables: “Dhit Tai Thai Dhit”.

Summary Table of Adavus in Tanjore Bani

In summary :

The Tanjore Bani adavus are characterized by their clean execution, symmetrical movements, and adherence to rhythm. Each adavu type contributes to the dancer’s repertoire by developing strength, rhythm, and expression while maintaining the traditional essence of Bharatanatyam. These steps form the foundation of Bharatanatyam, preparing dancers for more advanced choreography and abhinaya (expressive storytelling).