Bharatanatyam Adavus (Blog 4 of 8) : Vazhuvoor Bani

In the Vazhuvoor Bani, Bharatanatyam is known for its graceful and fluid movements, soft transitions, and dramatic expressiveness. The adavus in this bani are characterized by their emphasis on elegance, storytelling, and rhythmic nuances. Below is a detailed description of the types of adavus in the Vazhuvoor Bani and the number of steps for each.

1. Tatta Adavu (Tapping Step)

• Description: Focuses on rhythmic tapping of the feet while maintaining a graceful posture in Aramandi (half-sitting position). The movements in Vazhuvoor are softer and less rigid compared to other Banis.
• Number of Steps: Typically performed in 8 variations, with 4 to 8 steps per variation.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Thai Tha Tha”.

2. Natta Adavu (Stretching Step)

• Description: Combines gentle stretches of the legs with flowing hand movements. The focus is on maintaining fluidity and grace in the transitions.
• Number of Steps: Usually 6 to 8 steps per sequence, 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: Involves crossing and spreading out the legs diagonally with elegant hand gestures. The movements are expansive and emphasize the dancer’s balance and flow.
• Number of Steps: Typically 8 steps per variation, with some advanced forms extending to 16 steps.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Dhit Thai”.

4. Teermanam Adavu (Ending Step)

• Description: A concluding step performed with rhythm and dramatic emphasis. The Vazhuvoor style often adds subtle head and neck movements to enhance the expressiveness.
• Number of Steps: Usually 3 steps per cycle, repeated three times (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, performed with a soft and lyrical quality. The Vazhuvoor approach emphasizes fluid transitions between the jumps.
• Number of Steps: Typically 8 steps per variation, synchronized with the tala.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Ka Dhi Mi”.

6. Sarukkal Adavu (Sliding Step)

• Description: Features graceful sliding of the feet while incorporating expressive hand gestures. The movements are smooth, with an emphasis on storytelling elements.
• Number of Steps: Usually 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 or seated position, emphasizing balance, strength, and dramatic effect. Vazhuvoor dancers often use this adavu to add an element of surprise or dynamism.
• Number of Steps: Generally 6 to 8 steps per variation, with variations involving small leaps.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Tai Tha Tha Dhit Tai”.

8. Jati Adavu (Combination Step)

• Description: Combines movements from different adavus to form intricate rhythmic sequences. Vazhuvoor Bani emphasizes the expressive and dramatic aspects in this adavu.
• Number of Steps: Typically involves 16 to 32 steps per cycle, depending on the tala.
  • Example of syllables: “Tha Ka Dhi Mi Tha Tai Tha Tha”.

9. Tatti Metti Adavu (Heel Tapping Step)

• Description: Alternates heel tapping with rhythmic movements, performed with a graceful and lyrical approach in Vazhuvoor Bani.
• Number of Steps: Usually 4 to 8 steps per sequence, adapted to the tala.
  • Example of syllables: “Dhit Tai Tha Tai”.

10. Kuditthu Adavu (Leaping Step)

• Description: Involves energetic yet graceful leaping movements. In Vazhuvoor, this adavu often includes soft landings and smooth transitions, creating an illusion of lightness.
• Number of Steps: Typically 4 to 8 steps per variation.
  • Example of syllables: “Dhit Tai Thai Dhit”.

Key Features of Vazhuvoor Bani Adavus

1. Graceful Transitions: Movements in Vazhuvoor Bani are softer, with a focus on creating flowing transitions between steps.
2. Expressive Elements: Even in rhythmic adavus, subtle expressions (abhinaya) are often incorporated, making each movement more dynamic and engaging.
3. Fluidity and Elegance: The emphasis is on smoothness and elegance, with less rigidity compared to other Banis.
4. Theatrical Flourish: Many adavus are designed to enhance the dramatic aspects of the performance, making them visually captivating.

Summary Table of Adavus in Vazhuvoor Bani

In summary : 

The Vazhuvoor Bani brings a unique elegance and fluidity to Bharatanatyam adavus. Each adavu is designed to enhance the dancer’s expressiveness and storytelling ability while maintaining rhythmic precision. This style is ideal for those who wish to combine technical skill with artistic grace, making it a timeless contribution to Bharatanatyam.