14. Adavus – Audio

Narrated by Shantha Lakshmi

This chapter of Shall We Dance provides a comprehensive exploration of Adavus, the fundamental steps of Bharatanatyam that form the backbone of the classical dance form. Shantha masterfully explains how Adavus serve as the building blocks for choreography, offering a blend of rhythmic footwork, expressive hand gestures, and coordinated body movements that lay the foundation for a dancer’s journey from a student to a skilled performer.

What are Adavus?

Adavus are defined as structured combinations of posture, movement, and rhythm, forming the basic vocabulary of Bharatanatyam. Shantha emphasizes that while Adavus may appear simple, they encapsulate the essence of the art form’s technical rigor and aesthetic beauty. Each Adavu must be practiced with precision and grace, as they are essential for building balance, coordination, and fluidity in a dancer’s movements.

The Role of Adavus in Choreography

Shantha highlights the integral role of Adavus in choreography, explaining that they act as the foundation upon which complex sequences such as jathis (intricate rhythmic patterns) and varnams (expressive centerpiece compositions) are constructed. By mastering Adavus, dancers develop the technical skills required to perform more elaborate sequences with confidence and finesse.

Benefits of Practicing Adavus

The chapter details the physical and mental benefits of practicing Adavus:

• Coordination: The synchronized movement of the feet, hands, and body enhances the dancer’s overall sense of rhythm and balance.
• Posture: Correct posture is vital in Bharatanatyam, and practicing Adavus ensures that dancers maintain the elegant stance required for the art form.
• Stamina: Repeated practice builds endurance, preparing dancers for the physically demanding sequences of a performance.
• Rhythmic Awareness: Each Adavu is performed in specific tala (rhythmic cycles), enabling dancers to deepen their understanding of rhythm and develop impeccable timing.
• Focus and Discipline: The repetitive nature of Adavu practice helps cultivate concentration and discipline, qualities that are essential for a successful Bharatanatyam performer.

Adavus and Abhinaya

While Adavus primarily focus on technique, Shantha explains their connection to abhinaya (the art of expression). The precision and fluidity gained through Adavu practice create a strong foundation for expressing emotions effectively. By mastering Adavus, dancers can seamlessly transition from pure dance movements to expressive storytelling, merging technique with artistry.

Types of Adavus

The chapter explores various types of Adavus, each with unique movements and rhythms:

• Tatta Adavu: Basic foot-tapping movements that establish rhythm and body control.
• Natta Adavu: Movements that involve stretching and coordinated hand gestures, emphasizing grace and balance.
• Mettu Adavu: Intricate footwork patterns that highlight rhythmic precision.
• Kuditta Mettu: A combination of jumps and foot-tapping, adding dynamism to the performance.
• Teermanam Adavu: Used to mark transitions and conclude sequences with rhythmic flourishes.

Shantha explains how each type of Adavu contributes to the dancer’s repertoire, enabling them to execute a wide range of movements with skill and elegance.

Adavus: The Bridge Between Technique and Artistry

Shantha underscores that Adavus are not just technical drills but a bridge between technique and artistry. They form the foundation for storytelling in Bharatanatyam, enabling dancers to convey complex narratives through graceful and precise movements. Without Adavus, the elegance, complexity, and expressive depth of Bharatanatyam would be incomplete.

Transforming Students into Performers

The chapter concludes with a reflection on how Adavus transform students into performers. By mastering these fundamental steps, dancers gain the skills, discipline, and confidence required to perform on stage. Adavus are not merely exercises; they are the essence of Bharatanatyam, forming the core of the dancer’s journey toward artistic and spiritual excellence.