Author: Ram Krishnamani Date: March 5, 2025
Bharatanatyam, one of the most ancient and revered classical dance forms of India, is built upon a strong foundation of Adavus—the fundamental footwork sequences that define the rhythm, posture, and movement of a dancer. These rhythmic patterns are meticulously structured and play a vital role in developing balance, agility, and coordination, ultimately shaping a dancer’s technique and expressiveness.
Understanding the Adavu Groups
Adavus are systematically categorized into thirteen primary groups, each characterized by its syllables (solkattu) and corresponding hand gestures (Hastas). The number of Adavus within each group varies depending on the teaching lineage and the Guru’s interpretation. Below is a breakdown of the key Adavu groups:
| Adavu Group | Syllables (Solkattu) | Hastas Used |
|---|---|---|
| Tattadavu | Tai ya tai | Pathakam |
| Nattu Adavu | Ta tai tai ta | Tripatakam, Katakamukham, Alapadmam |
| Kuditta Mettu Adavu | Tai ha tai ha | Katakamukham, Alapadmam |
| Sarukkal Adavu | Tai hath- dhit tai | Pathakam, Katakamukham, Alapadmam, Mrigashirsham |
| Thirumana Adavu | Tadhikinathom | Tripatakam, Katakamukham, Alapadmam |
| Mandi Adavu | Tat taithaam | Tripatakam |
| Thatti Mettu | Chatusram (4 beats), Tisram (3 beats), Misram (7 beats), Khandam (5 beats), Sankirnam (9 beats) | Tamarachuda |
Each of these Adavus is performed with precision and rhythmic control, ensuring synchronization between footwork, hand gestures, and expressions (Abhinaya).
The Importance of Feet Positions in Bharatanatyam
Before executing Adavus, a dancer must master the fundamental feet positions, as they serve as the foundation for stability, balance, and posture in Bharatanatyam. These include:
- Sama – Feet together in a natural position, knees straight
- Parshwa – Feet and knees turned sideways in a horizontal line
- Tayasra – Feet positioned in a ‘V’ shape with toes pointing outward
- Swastika – Feet crossed over each other
These positions are crucial in defining Bharatanatyam’s aesthetic form and ensuring proper weight distribution while performing complex movements.
Variations in Footwork (Paada Bheda)
Apart from fixed positions, Bharatanatyam also incorporates dynamic foot variations that add rhythm and grace to the performance. These movements create a sense of fluidity and percussive impact, enhancing the overall presentation.
| Foot Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Kuttanam | Stamping the ground with the sole, toe, or heel |
| Sarik | Sliding the feet without lifting |
| Ancita | Lifting the toe while the heel remains grounded |
| Agratala Sancara | Raising the heel while keeping the toes on the ground |
| Suci | One foot placed flat, while the other touches the ground with only the big toe |
| Udghattita | Stamping the ground with the heel while the forefoot remains on the ground |
| Kutta | Stamping with the toes while the heel is lifted |
| Tadita | Stamping with the forefoot while the heel remains planted |
| Mardita | Rubbing the sole against the ground |
| Sakhalita | Sliding the foot across the ground |
Mastering these foot variations allows dancers to create intricate rhythms, execute seamless transitions, and express narrative emotions effectively.
Why Adavus Are Essential for Bharatanatyam
Adavus are not just technical exercises but the very soul of Bharatanatyam, acting as the building blocks of intricate choreography. Their importance lies in:
- Developing Rhythmic Precision – Footwork aligns with the beats of the music (Tala).
- Enhancing Physical Endurance – Strengthens the lower body and improves stamina.
- Establishing Postural Grace – Ensures balance, poise, and seamless movement.
- Synchronizing Movement & Expression – Forms the foundation for emotive storytelling.
By rigorously practicing Adavus, dancers refine their technique, allowing them to seamlessly blend movement, expression, and rhythm in a way that captivates the audience.
Final Thoughts
For every Bharatanatyam student, Adavus are a non-negotiable practice that must be perfected before advancing to expressive storytelling (Abhinaya). A well-trained dancer not only masters footwork precision but also integrates hand gestures and expressions, ensuring a harmonious and captivating performance.
Bharatanatyam is a symphony of movement and rhythm, and Adavus are its heartbeat—ensuring that every step taken resonates with the soul of this divine art form.
