The Bharantanatyam Arangetram of Shriya & Nitya Katukuri

[An Indian Classical dance form]

Bharatanatyam, one of the oldest and most popular dance styles of India, has its roots in the classical dance tradition of Tamil Nadu in Southern India. The cultural Heritage of Tamil Nadu goes way back to ancient times. The dance is taught according to the guidelines established in a book on Bharatanatyam - Natyasastra - that was written by Sage Bharatha. The origins of this art form can be traced back to ancient Sanskrit literature and Temple sculptures; many of the ancient sculptures in Hindu temples are based on Bharatanatyam dance poses. It is said that Bharatanatyam was originally derived from the four Vedas (the great ancient scriptures of Hinduism). Bharathanatyam, as the name depicts, is a blend of BHA - Bhava (Expression), RA - Raga (Melody), TA - Tala (Rhythm).

Today, Bharathanatyam is an immensely popular form of cultural expression and source of pride among Indians in diaspora communities around the world. Bharatanatyam has attained a very high status and is immensely popular and many recognized universities offer degrees in Bharatanatyam, and artistes are given international recognition and honors.

The best-known Bharatanatyam styles are:

-Melattur

-Pandanallur

-Vazhuvoor (or Vizhuvur)

-Thanjavoor (or Tanjore)

-Mysore Kanchipooram

-Kalakshetra Style

Arangetram:

Arangetram is a Tamil word. Aranga meaning raised floor or stage and Etram meaning climbing or ascending, meaning Ascending the Stage. It is also called Rangapravesha in Kannada, another south Indian language, Ranga meaning Stage and Pravesha meaning Enter. Ideally this should be the first public performance of an artist. After learning Bharatanatyam under the guidance of an accomplished guru, this is the occasion for the proud Guru to present her disciple to the public. This is the testing time for both the Guru & the Shishya (disciple) as the guru's knowledge & the disciple's talent both are judged by the public. Hence, the guru will decide when the disciple is ready for public appearance. In olden days, disciples were not allowed to wear jingles till their first public performance. In their first performance, they were made to worship the jingles, wear them & then perform. Accompaniments play a major role in the making of a memorable dance performance. Basic accompaniments are a Singer, Mridangam player, Violin player and of course the Natuvangam. Veena, Flute and other instruments are also used.

The first performance, the first applause and the first word of appreciation is always special for an artiste.

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